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

This illustration for Alexander Pushkin's poem 'Ruslan and Lyudmila' was created by Ivan Bilibin in 1918, using pen and ink. Look closely, and you’ll notice how the material of ink affects the image. The bold, graphic quality arises from the fine lines, which describe both figures and landscape in meticulous detail. Each stroke, each dot, is carefully considered, building up to a rich tapestry of pattern. We can see the precision and control required to create this level of detail. Bilibin wasn't just an illustrator; he was a master of graphic design and stage design. His style was deeply rooted in Russian folk art, so he wasn’t creating 'high art'. Instead, he embraced popular imagery, elevating its status through sheer technical skill. The amount of work in this image is a feat of sustained concentration. Ultimately, this illustration reminds us that 'fine art' and 'craft' can converge, offering a fresh perspective on tradition and creativity.