The little thumb 

Gustave Doré made this wood engraving, ‘The little thumb’, as an illustration for a book of fairy tales. Doré’s mastery lies in his capacity to create a full tonal range, from the deepest black to the most delicate grays, all from the simple act of cutting lines into wood. Wood engraving is a relief process – the artist carves away the areas that will not hold ink, leaving the design standing in relief. This requires immense skill and planning, and there is no room for error. Observe the figures emerging from the shadows. The sinister ogre is looming over the sleeping children, his intentions clear from the sharp knife he holds. The dramatic contrast between light and dark, achieved through the density and direction of the engraved lines, adds to the unsettling atmosphere. It also speaks to the labour involved in the production process. Ultimately, this artwork is a testament to the expressive potential of wood engraving, transforming a children's story into a powerful commentary on vulnerability and danger. It challenges us to see the value of labor and skill inherent in printmaking, and the way in which craft can be used to elevate the art of illustration.