Illustration for the poem 'Ruslan and Lyudmila' by Alexander Pushkin 1918

This illustration by Ivan Bilibin depicts a scene from Alexander Pushkin's epic poem "Ruslan and Lyudmila." Created in 1918, it showcases Bilibin's signature style of intricate linework and stylized figures, characteristic of the Russian Art Nouveau movement. The image depicts the sorcerer Chernomor, who is depicted as a wizened, bearded figure, being pulled through the air by a chain held by Ruslan, a knight. The scene is set against a dramatic backdrop of rocky cliffs and swirling clouds, reflecting the epic and fantastical nature of the story. This artwork is a testament to Bilibin's talent for capturing the essence of Russian folklore through his art.