‘In Betheleem that Noble Place’, by Florence Rudland

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In Betheleem that Noble Place

Florence Rudland

Woodcut engraved by Rudland

5¼ x 4 inches

A Book of Pictured Carols, 46

Another version of Gabriel’s visitation to the angels. [Commentary continues below.]

Birmingham School of Illustration

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Here, Rudland creates a powerful impression of urgency and shock, with the divine being speaking and gesticulating while the shepherds respond variously: one looks up in disbelief, while the other holds his hands against his face in astonishment, or perhaps weeping with joy. Touching also in the toy-box detail, with a tiny church in the far distance with the star above it.

Bibliography

A Book of Pictured Carols Designed by Members of the Birmingham Art School. London: George Allen, 1893.

Created 20 July 2020