Stan Bolovan outwits the Dragon Henry Justice Ford (1860-1941)

The drawing presents a scene of confrontation between a young man and a formidable dragon within a densely wooded area. The composition is dominated by the scale disparity between the two figures; the dragon towers over the man, its immense size emphasized through detailed rendering of scales, claws, and a serpentine neck that coils upwards toward the treetops. The creature’s head, positioned at an oblique angle, conveys both menace and a degree of bewildered surprise. Wisps of smoke emanate from its nostrils, suggesting fiery breath or perhaps simply agitation.
The young man, dressed in what appears to be simple peasant attire, stands with one hand raised, seemingly offering something to the dragon. His posture is not overtly fearful; instead, there’s an element of calculated audacity in his stance and expression. He is accompanied by a small child who peers out from behind him, adding a layer of vulnerability and perhaps representing innocence or future generations.
The surrounding foliage is rendered with intricate detail, creating a sense of depth and enclosure. The trees are not merely background elements but actively frame the interaction between the man and the dragon, contributing to the overall feeling of being within a contained, fantastical realm. Light appears to filter through the leaves, highlighting certain areas while leaving others in shadow, which enhances the dramatic effect.
Subtleties within the drawing suggest a narrative beyond simple combat. The gesture of offering something – likely food or treasure as is common in dragon lore – implies an attempt at negotiation or deception rather than direct aggression. This hints at a cleverness on the part of the man, suggesting he intends to outwit the beast through cunning rather than brute force. The presence of the child reinforces this notion; it implies that the man’s actions are not solely for his own benefit but also for the safety and well-being of those who will follow him.
The style of drawing, with its fine lines and detailed shading, evokes a sense of traditional storytelling or folklore illustration. The overall effect is one of whimsical adventure tempered by underlying tension – a moment poised between potential danger and unexpected triumph.