Artwork by Anastasia Nestarov
Without bells, remember.
It’s one of the most iconic images from the first book and also iconic to the Snow Queen story, which inspired Lewis to include it in the first place.
Most artists don’t stray too far from the text. There’s a dwarf, at least two reindeer, and a luxurious sleigh which includes furs on the inside. The witch’s costume and the sleigh’s design varies, though it’s usually ornate and fanciful.
The pic above is typical, highlighting the witch’s malicious nature and Edmond’s greed.
Artwork by Elliot Hale
Here’s one that’s different. The witch wears a beret, looking like an aging Beatnik, while Edmond is shivering with the cold. I think the artist forgot the line about the sleigh being lined with furs. The dwarf wears a hunting cap with flaps which is different also. Most artists put the dwarf in a stocking cap.
Edmund and the White Witch, by The Hxverling
At least here Edmond is bundled up in furs. But the witch’s expression is oddly impassive as she offers him his doom — and he reaches for it tentatively. Her icicle crown is inspired by the Walden movie, though it looks more like fangs.
Edmund and the Witch, by Rogue Eidolon
In this decorative depiction the witch has small, round, dangerous, beady eyes, like the Predator creature from the movie franchise. Edmond is far from comfortable with her.
Artwork by Mahta Hedayat
All the character look way too innocent in this stylized “South Park” version. The dwarf especially seems to be having second thoughts about his employer.
Turkish Delight, by Melodie Stacey
The dwarf doesn’t get a seat in this version — he has to stand as he drives the sleigh, which has realistic high runners. The witch is determined, the bespectacled Edmond unsure. The childlike style works well with a good sense of speed and urgency.
Turkish Delight, by Patricia Pessoa
Another childlike version which is a lot sweeter. We don’t see a sleigh, but it’s inferred they’re in one. The witch seems to be saying “I’ll love and protect you for ever and ever schnookiekins” while Edmund has his doubts.
