Illustration for "Peronnik the Fool": Tailpiece by Stephen Gooden

Illustration for "Peronnik the Fool": Tailpiece

Stephen Gooden · 1933

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“Stop to appreciate the intricate details of this engraving, a charming illustration for a story that invites you into a world of magic and wonder, all rendered with remarkable precision.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

This engraving, a tailpiece for the story "Peronnik the Fool," draws the viewer into a whimsical, almost magical scene. A young boy, presumably Peronnik, stands at the center, his gaze fixed on a small, glowing sphere held aloft by a mysterious, robed figure. The intricate detail, characteristic of engraving, brings out the textures of the figures' clothing and the subtle play of light and shadow across the composition. The setting, with its suggestion of an ancient, perhaps sacred space, adds to the work's enigmatic quality. It's a small but compelling image, inviting contemplation of the narrative it illustrates, and showcasing the precision and inventiveness that define this particular artistic medium.

DETAILS
Artist
Stephen Gooden
Date
1933
Medium
engraving
Location
Cleveland Museum of Art
Dimensions
[object Object]
LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

Four details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Illustration for "Peronnik the Fool": Tailpiece
01

The tiny, glowing orb held by the robed figure.

02

The boy's focused expression, almost a trance.

03

The delicate cross-hatching that creates depth and shadow.

04

The subtle patterns on the figures' robes.

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THE ARTIST

Stephen Gooden

1892–1955 · United Kingdom

Master engraver whose St George design for Windsor Castle became the George Medal worn by British heroes.

Read Gooden’s full story
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