The Light
Source: TV
Layers: 3
No sketches available
Cel Number: A4, B3, C2
Standard size
Original Unmatching Background
Added 5/3/2012
Updated 6/30/2012
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This is the most powerful and, at times, the most assertive of the Aoitori-tachi helpers. I have not identified the moment, but this spirit manifests only at the times when the questers are facing their most difficult challenges. Through her power, she can dispel all the minions of darkness. So from her expression and her emphatic gesture, I’m assuming she is compelling a difficult enemy, maybe even the Queen of the Night herself, to give ground and let the youngsters complete their mission. Sequence numbers: A4, B3, C2.
Wow ... this is a cel that makes quite an impact in the scan and more so when you see it in person. All the trace lines are hand-drawn in various colors, and the image’s radiance is enhanced by extensive airbrushing on the back side of one of the layers. See the first thumb, where I’ve switched a dark background for the one that came with the cel. I cannot determine if the background is the original matching one, but from the way it is deliberately made softer and more ethereal by the airbrushing, it seems likely that it is.
Judging from the movie versions of Maeterlinck’s play (notorious turkeys, every one), designers have generally opted for an elaborate art deco design, heavily encrusted with jewels and sequins. This is the tradition that CLAMP followed in designing the most powerful of all the Clow Cards, likewise named The Light.
But the decision to have her appear as “Naked Light” was a gutsy and (to Sensei’s eyes at least) effective solution to how to costume such an amorphous entity. By leaving The Light totally unclothed except for her discreet strands of bright orange hair, character designer Leiji Matsumoto created an entity that is purely, simply, and unashamedly herself. After all, light does not need bangles and sequins to overcome the darkness.
Sadly, her important appearances are one reason that we are unlikely to see a proper licenced version of this important anime in North America. But obtaining a fine image of this character was a high wishlist for me, and I’m delighted to let her shine on gloriously in this gallery.
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