The artwork titled “Daughters of the Stars” is an illustration by artist Edmund Dulac, reflecting the Art Nouveau movement, also known as Modern style. Created for Mary Crary’s storytelling, this piece exemplifies the period’s penchant for decorative, flowing lines and stylized forms.
In this particular illustration, we observe a dreamlike scene dominated by a city or castle that seems to float atop clouds, suggestive of its otherworldly or fantastical nature. The architecture of the building is circular and elaborate, characterized by multiple windows and balconies, which evinces the intricate design elements typical of Art Nouveau aesthetics.
Three characters take center stage in the foreground, linked by their gazes and physical proximity. On the left, a woman adorned in a dress patterned with celestial motifs stands beside a young girl, whose simple white dress contrasts with the detailed attire of the woman, possibly indicating a mother-daughter relationship or a guiding figure with a child. Both are looking towards a soldierly figure, who, with a pointed hat, an ornate uniform, and a confident stance, takes a step down from the ethereal castle. The soldier’s right hand is raised in a gesture that could be interpreted as a welcoming signal or as a part of a narrative sequence presented by this tableau.
The color palette of the illustration is subdued yet evocative, with the cool blues and purples suggesting a nocturnal or twilight setting, further enhancing the mystique of the scene. Soft lighting effects give an impression of the city being bathed in a gentle glow, likely from the stars, which can be subtly discerned in the sky. The use of cloud-like forms not only on the ground but also surrounding the castle adds to the ethereal and light sensation conveyed by the artwork. Overall, the piece encapsulates the elegance, fantasy, and lyrical qualities characteristic of Dulac’s work within the Art Nouveau movement.
