Prelude to a Million Years

"Prelude to a Million Years" is a 1933 wordless novel by Lynd Ward, comprising thirty wood engravings that tell a poignant story through powerful illustrations. In this work, Ward adopts a softer Art Deco style, marking a stylistic shift from his earlier Expressionism-inspired pieces. The narrative follows a sculptor obsessed with seeking ideal beauty, overlooking the hardships of his neighbors during the Great Depression. The engravings are rich in symbolism, illustrating themes of artistic aspiration versus social reality, and explore how the artist’s pursuits can become disconnected from worldly struggles. The work exemplifies Ward’s mastery in merging illustration with profound social commentary.