Kay Nielsen: An Enchanted Vision

The Danish artist Kay Nielsen’s luminous interpretations of fairy tales and legends from around the world are among the most celebrated book illustrations of the 20th century. This book is the first to put his achievements in the context of a career that took him from studying in Paris to galleries in London and New York, to the Walt Disney Studios, presenting fresh insights into his life and work. Reproductions of original pieces invite viewers to enter the enchanted world of a supremely gifted artist.Born in Copenhagen and educated in Paris, Kay Nielsen (1886–1957) gained international recognition for his exquisite gift book illustrations, notably his masterpieces East of the Sun and West of the Moon (1914) and Fairy Tales by Hans Andersen (1924). In contrast to some of his contemporaries, Nielsen often focussed on the melancholic or dramatic elements of tales, creating memorable visual sequences reflecting themes of love, passion, loss and death. During the last stage of his career, he collaborated with Walt Disney Studios on the landmark animation film Fantasia, and produced several public art commissions.
ISBN 9780878468805. MFA Publications, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. hb. 168 pages. 115 colour ills. 21.6 x 28.6 cm. .
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