Beasts & Men

Folk Tales Collected in Flanders

Jean de Bosschère
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Submission
Royal Academy Fine Arts, Antwerp
Language
English
Source
Public Domain
Format
Archive
Era
Early Modern: 1500—1800
Sphere
Social
Submission
Royal Academy Fine Arts, Antwerp
Language
English
Source
Public Domain
Format
Archive
Era
Early Modern: 1500—1800
Sphere
Social

Beasts & Men is an illustrated collection of folk tales from Flanders, offering a captivating glimpse into the rich tapestry of local myths and legends.

These tales, drawn from the cultural heritage of Flanders and Brabant, explore a world where the boundaries between the human and animal realms are often blurred, reflecting ancient ideas about transformation, morality, and the relationship between humanity and nature.

Illustrated by Jean de Bosschère, the book is not only a showcase of the stories themselves but also a visual feast. De Bosschère's whimsical and grotesque illustrations bring the tales to life with extraordinary detail, blending the fantastical with a uniquely Flemish charm. His work, described as a "droll fancy" with a notable power of the grotesque, complements the tales’ moral undertones, presenting them with an inviting, almost naïve energy that resonates with readers of all ages. These vivid images not only reflect the depth of the stories but also enhance their mythological and moral dimensions, making this book an essential contribution to both Flemish folklore and the wider tradition of illustrated folk literature.

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