Edmund Dulac's Picture-Book for the French Red Cross

by Edmund Dulac

"Edmund Dulac's Picture-Book for the French Red Cross" by Edmund Dulac is a collection of fairy tales and stories illustrated by the renowned artist, which likely originated in the early 20th century. This illustrated work includes various classic tales from different cultures, including Chinese, Persian, and French folklore, showcasing Dulac's artistic style that accompanies the narratives. The stories aim to enchant readers with whimsical plots and cultural depth while also serving a charitable cause for the French Red Cross. The opening of the book begins with an introduction that emphasizes the purpose behind its creation, highlighting the need for support for wounded French soldiers during difficult times. Following this, it presents the first tale, "The Story of the Bird Feng," which tells the story of Ta-Khai, a prince who dreams of a beautiful maiden. Desperate to find her, he is led to a magical bird, the Feng-Hwang, who promises to help him locate her. The tale sets a tone of longing and adventure while illustrating themes of love and destiny, which resonate through the other stories included in the collection, making it an enchanting read for lovers of fairy tales.