The Age of Enchantment

An exhibition of artwork, mainly book illustrations from the late nineteenth and early twentieth century at the Dulwich Picture Gallery. I'll start by commenting on the Gallery itself - a private gallery of pictures - and remarkable for the quality. There is a nice, small bookshop and a very expensive 'cafe' that is staffed by people with attitude.
The exhibition of works by Beardsley, Rackham, Clarke, my favourite Dulac (his illustration shown above) and others shows a common theme of works used for children's stories, fairy tales, and later theatrical events. Many of the illustrations contain elaborate and fantastical figures and creatures (as required of the likes of 1001 Arabian Nights Tales). The size of the works varies considerably, and fortunately there is a free, and extremely comprehensive catalogue to guide you through the exhibits, because as is often the case the notes and descriptions attached to each object are generally badly sited and difficult to read without stooping.
There are so many delightful things to look at - demonstrating the exuberance of the times, but inevitably the illustrations become darker with the onset of World War I. The artistry is magificent, intricate and impressive in many of the works of art - especially the smaller ones, worthy of admiration in my view.
All in all worth making the journey into South London. Rating: 7/10