Artwork by Laura B. Hallett
Let’s look at some more depictions of the White Witch — Jadis — riding in her sleigh.
This one, by Laura B. Hallett, is a doozy of bizarreness. The runners seem to be made of mammoth tusks, which seems appropriate for Narnia in its frozen state, and there’s two bald dwarves, a wolf in a doggie coat, and a bat (where’d that come from?) while the witch simpers sweetly as she offers Edmund the Turkish Delight. Altogether a unique vision.
Artwork by illustrator Alice Ink
A professional children’s book illustrator made this version, in watercolor, and it’s polished and delightful, especially in the art nouveau design of the sleigh. Here the witch’s hair serves as her crown, moussed upward in a style resembling the legs of on octopus. Edmund cradles his hot drink and is barely seen amongst the furs. But the real surprise is the dwarf, who is sulking off to the side as if he’s jealous of all the attention Edmund is receiving.
The White Witch’s Sleigh, by James Philip
I like this one even though the sleigh is too boxlike, like a stage prop. The witch has what I consider the correct color hair — black as night — plus a bouffant which highlights her crown. Edmond, dressed in his usual garb of short pants, sweater vest, button-down shirt, and knee socks, is surprised and a little puzzled, while the reindeer, with their backward glances, are all too knowing of the outcome.
Artwork by Ali Yildiz
Here’s another unique stylized vision. Both Edmund and the witch look to be sitting within a cloud of fluffy, fleecy fur. Jadis sports a heavy gold bracelet and her dreadlocks, inspired by the Walden film, take on the aspect of coiled snakes. Note the stain on Edmund’s mouth, indicative of his greed and lapse in moral character. A++ !
Also based on the film, this one is too happy-happy joy-joy for my taste.
This artist took Baynes’ original illustration and pushed it further. The sleigh is a frothy, lacy confection — surely that elaborate backpiece is translucent — and the witch simple yet majestic — while edmund stands in front, in his bathrobe, alone and vulnerable. Here he’s in his bathrobe, which is from the Walden movie. In the text of the book, he’s wearing everyday clothing, though not for wintry weather.
