Antonio is not afraid of the Ogre Henry Justice Ford (1860-1941)

The drawing presents a stark contrast in scale and demeanor between a small boy and a colossal ogre. The composition is framed by what appears to be a cave entrance on the left, creating a sense of enclosure and emphasizing the figures within. A rocky outcrop juts down from above, further defining the space.
Here we see the boy, Antonio, positioned at the base of the ogre’s massive leg. He reaches up towards the creatures arm with an outstretched hand, seemingly attempting to touch or interact with it. His posture suggests a lack of fear and perhaps even curiosity rather than apprehension. The figure is lightly rendered, emphasizing his vulnerability in comparison to the imposing presence above him.
The ogre dominates the scene. Its size is exaggerated, dwarfing Antonio and filling much of the frame. The artist depicted the creature with pronounced features: large, protruding teeth, a furrowed brow, and deeply shadowed eyes that convey an expression difficult to decipher – perhaps weariness or even a hint of melancholy rather than outright menace. The ogre’s hand, resting on what appears to be a small goat, is rendered with considerable detail, highlighting its immense size and power. The goat itself seems unconcerned by the situation, adding another layer of unexpected calm to the scene.
The use of stark black and white creates a dramatic effect, enhancing the contrast between light and shadow and contributing to the overall sense of heightened reality. The lines are precise and detailed, lending a meticulous quality to the drawing.
Subtextually, the image explores themes of courage, innocence, and the potential for connection across seemingly insurmountable differences. Antonio’s lack of fear challenges conventional notions of power dynamics and suggests that vulnerability can be a source of strength. The ogres ambiguous expression hints at a complexity beyond simple monstrousness, implying that appearances can be deceiving. The presence of the goat introduces an element of pastoral tranquility, further softening the potentially frightening encounter. The inscription Antonio is not afraid of the Ogre reinforces this central theme and serves as a direct statement about Antonio’s character.