Nicolas Delort’s Mesmerizing Interpretation of Percy Bysshe Shelley’s “Ozymandias”

Nicolas Delort’s Ozymandias is based on the iconic poem by Percy Bysshe Shelley. The poem, written in 1818, is a haunting meditation on the inevitable decline of power, told through the eyes of a traveller who discovers the ruins of a once-great empire, now forgotten and decayed. Delort’s artistic take captures the essence of Shelley’s words, portraying a lone traveller standing atop the shattered fingertip of a half-buried statue of Ozymandias, King of Kings. Surrounding him are endless stretches of desert sand, emphasizing the insignificance of human ambition in the face of time.

The attention to detail in Delort’s original etching on clay board is remarkable. His intricate line work evokes both the majesty and the desolation of the scene, drawing the viewer into the vastness of the landscape.

It was our job to ensure that every aspect of his original etching was faithfully captured on paper, from the finest details of the illustration to the broader contrasts of light and shadow.

For this project, two unique editions were produced, each with its distinct feel. The regular edition was printed on Peregrina Majestic Marble White metallic paper, which brought out the piece's luminosity and delicate line work. The variant edition was printed on Sand-coloured metallic paper with white ink to create a smooth transition between light and dark areas. This variant offered a completely different atmosphere, adding a warm, ethereal quality to the artwork.

It was a true pleasure bringing these editions to life through the screen printing process. Screen printing demands precision, patience, and a solid grasp of the materials and techniques involved. We’re pleased to say that the regular and variant editions of Ozymandias reflect the craftsmanship and attention to detail we aim for in every print run.

It’s not just about screenprinting an edition—it’s about collaboration and trust.

Working with artists and publishers to bring their visions to life is a rewarding aspect of our work at White Duck Editions. It’s not just about screenprinting an edition—it’s about collaboration and trust. Ozymandias highlights the beauty of the collaboration between a skilled commissioning gallery, a talented artist, and a dedicated Print Studio. Working with Black Dragon Press, known for their thoughtful approach to art curation, and Nicolas Delort, with his distinct artistic style, we produced these screen-printed editions with care and precision. It’s a reminder that when the right elements come together—gallery, artist, and printmakers—remarkable work can be achieved through a shared commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

For those who haven’t experienced Shelley’s Ozymandias yet, treat yourself to a captivating reading by Sir John Gielgud right here.

At White Duck Editions, we love helping artists and publishers bring their creative visions to life through screen printing. We work closely with our clients to craft high-quality, limited-edition prints and offer expert advice on more complex projects. If you’re curious about working together or want to learn more about what we do, drop us a line—we’d love to chat about how we can support your next project. And for all the details on the Ozymandias editions, be sure to check out Nicolas Delort’s and Black Dragon Press’s websites!

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