edited by Amanda T. Zehnder and David M. Brinley
172 pages, hardcover, $44.95
Published by University of Delaware Press
udpress.udel.edu

One of the many standout visuals in the book Icons of the Fantastic is Deathworld, an oil painting by James Avati. In it, a rocket ship has crash-landed and burned. While disoriented humans stagger, a figure wearing an alligator head has planted his spear in victory. As a reptile, he may be a warrior, but as the man’s face within the mask expresses doubt. Like many other works in this book, Deathworld instantly captivates.

All illustrations featured in Icons of the Fantastic are from the Korshak Collection, which is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting science fiction and fantasy illustrations. There is an abundance of greats here, such as Hannes Bok, a major contributor to pulp magazines like Weird Tales and Astonishing Stories. His otherworldly creatures have rich colors and feel more dreamlike than strictly sci-fi. Frank Frazetta’s style is grittier, and his colors are more earthy. A prolific comic book illustrator, Frazetta became known for his fluid line work on muscular men and curvaceous women. Sensual heroines were also Margaret Brundage’s specialty, who often worked in pastels. As her style gained popularity, she challenged the boundaries of fantasy illustration. Brundage added race and ethnic variety to her nudes, empowering them with autonomy by giving them a direct gaze instead of a submissive expression.

For context and history, essays from a dozen contributors balance out this catalog and include the individual profiles of some illustrators. Readers curious about the fantasy genre will enjoy the details and the interview with renowned artist Michael Whelan, whose colossal landscapes must be seen. —Ruth Hagopian ca