The Aesop Tree 1950

Antonio Frasconi's 1950 woodcut print, "The Aesop Tree," is a complex and symbolic work that utilizes the motif of a tree to represent the diverse and enduring legacy of the ancient Greek storyteller Aesop. The tree's branches are laden with birds and animals, reflecting Aesop's famous fables, while its roots are inscribed with the names of various cultures that have embraced his tales, such as "Indian Fable" and "Marie de France XII". This woodcut, created using a printing technique with carved wood blocks, showcases Frasconi's characteristic bold lines and intricate details, making it an exceptional piece of illustrative art.