am 2 cover2 Maria Orlowska

The composition presents a scene imbued with a sense of uplift and aspiration. Here we observe three children positioned in the lower portion of the frame, their bodies angled upwards towards a large white bird – likely a swan or goose – that dominates the upper space. The figures are rendered in a somewhat stylized manner, suggesting a narrative illustration rather than a strictly realistic depiction.
The child on the left holds what appears to be a violin, its posture indicating an attempt to join the upward movement through music. The central figure reaches upwards with one hand, while the third child, positioned to the right, is in mid-leap, arms outstretched as if striving to grasp or connect with the bird. Their clothing – a mix of traditional and somewhat fanciful elements – contributes to a sense of timelessness and perhaps hints at a folk tale setting.
The background is characterized by a turbulent sky rendered in muted greens and browns, creating a dramatic contrast with the lightness of the bird and the children’s attire. This atmospheric backdrop amplifies the feeling of ascension and suggests an overcoming of earthly constraints. The light source appears to be from above, illuminating the figures and emphasizing their upward gaze.
Beneath the imagery, text in two lines is visible: Selma Lagerlöf followed by a word written in a different script. This pairing strongly implies that the artwork serves as cover art for a work authored by Selma Lagerlöf, likely intended to evoke themes of wonder, journey, and perhaps even spiritual liberation – ideas frequently explored within her literary works. The swan’s presence could symbolize grace, purity, or transformation, while the childrens collective effort suggests cooperation and shared hope in pursuit of something beyond their immediate reach.