‘Mopsa The Fairy’ by Jean Ingelow 1920

Dorothy Lathrop made this illustration for ‘Mopsa The Fairy’ with ink, exploring an elegant interplay of positive and negative space. The mark-making here feels deliberate yet playful, balancing precision with the organic forms of the natural world. It really makes you think about the push and pull between control and spontaneity that is key to the creative process. The textures are achieved through varied line weights, from the delicate striations of the mushroom caps to the dense, stippled shadows that create depth. Notice the little running figure towards the bottom, rendered with such simplicity and charm. This attention to detail is pure Lathrop! Lathrop’s illustrations make me think of Arthur Rackham, both artists sharing a love for intricate detail and a deep connection to folklore. In both cases, their work celebrates the power of imagination and the enduring appeal of stories.