News

We're currently working on a new book dedicated to the literary illustrations of Gustave Doré, and our research has inspired this week's article. Read on to find out how Doré's incredible talent has inspired filmmakers and famous artists alike, plus, we'll take a look at some of his mesmerising illustrations. Let's go!

Anatomical illustrations are an essential resource in the study of human anatomy. This article will examine the evolution of anatomical illustrations from the Renaissance to the 19th century to observe the developments in scientific understanding, changes in artistic expression, and technological innovation.

Few artists have been as influential as Leonardo da Vinci. His work in various disciplines - from painting and sculpture to engineering and architecture - has inspired generations of creators. He is also well known for his groundbreaking anatomical drawings. However, his revolutionary anatomical sketches remained a secret for centuries, only to be rediscovered in the modern era and finally receive their due recognition as one of history's most influential contributions to scientific knowledge. Read on to discover more! 

Have you ever wondered how the armour worn by soldiers and knights in the middle ages protected them? Many people will be familiar with the sight of a knight dressed in a full suit of shining armour, but how exactly did armour work? This article will examine different types of protective wear used in medieval times alongside magnificent illustrations from our pictorial archive, Brutal Weapons and Armour; An Image Archive For Artists and Designers. Read on to find out more!

In 16th and 17th century Europe, a figure encased in strange garments emerged from the shadows of plague-ridden cities. Clad in an unnerving bird-like beak mask and gloves, these mysterious men were known as Plague Doctors. Their backgrounds varied; some candidates had genuinely trained as doctors, but others, like one ex-fruit seller, were a little more unusual. Their job took them to the epicentre of plague outbreaks during one of Europe's darkest periods in history.

Angels have been a source of inspiration for artists and designers for centuries. These heavenly creatures feature in beautiful artwork, from paintings and sculptures to tapestries and stained glass windows. Our latest release, Angels & Cherubs: An Image Archive for Artists and Designers, includes 159 beautiful, lifelike images of angels and cherubs in various poses and scenarios. This blog post will tell the story behind some of the illustrations.

Berthe Hoola Van Nooten was a Dutch artist and illustrator best known for her botanical artwork. Her detailed illustrations of flowers and plants were widely sought after by collectors and art lovers. Hoola Van Nooten's work is characterised by its precise attention to detail and soft and delicate colour palette. She is most well known for her illustrated collection, Fleurs, Fruits et Feuillages Choisis de l'Ile de Java, a set of 40 stunning illustrations depicting the botanical species in the Indonesian island of Java. Let's take a closer look at the life and work of this remarkable artist.

Flowers have inspired artists throughout history; from ancient Roman frescoes to Monet's water lilies, many of the world's most revered artists have decorated their works with colourful blooms. The botanical world has an endless variety of flowers – each with unique colour schemes, shapes and sizes that make them incredibly versatile subject matter for any artist. They are captivating symbols of life and beauty, and some flowers have additional symbolic meanings.

Many Greek and Roman mythology characters have been depicted in art throughout the ages, and these characters often hold great significance in ancient and modern cultures. Some of these figures are more well-known than others, but all offer a fascinating glimpse into the fantastic and magical world of mythology