Alexander Zick

Alexander Zick (1845-1907)

Here is another talented German illustrator from the end of 19th and beginning of 20th century most of people never heard for. He was one of most successful German illustrators of his time but we have very scarce information about him and it is hard to believe we will ever read his biography.

It is known he was born in Koblenz, he studied art in Dusseldorf (sculpure and painting) and it is known he moved to Berlin in 1880 where he became known primarly as illustrator. Being a German it is not surprising he put his hands on Grimms' Fairy Tales and I have chosen one from this collection:



I decided to present a scene from Snow White, where we have two characters in troubles. Everybody knows what worries Snow White, but we too often forget what is hunter's greatest problem.

He has to kill the girl if he doesn't want to hurt his own family. And he has to bring the proof about his actions to the evil queen.

Not an easy situation, right?

I think Alexander Zick portrayed the situation really well. From the poses of both bodies and hunter's face we can clearly see they are both in trouble. We can also notice a lot of details (leaves, shadows,  castle in the background), what was typical for classic painting, where the final result was should be achieving realistic three dimensional effect.

Zick was great illustrator with classical education. His illustrations for children were still done in this style, although already internationally famous Walter Crane already introduced different technique, which later became a standard in juvenile literature.

Unfortunately I can't add much more about Alexander Zick. He died in Berlin and about 40 colored plates for Grimms' Fairy tales are probably his biggest contribution to the world of illustration for kids. If somebody can add something more about him, the comment section is opened.

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