SAILOR ON THE SEAS OF FATE

Cover illustration for Michael Moorcock

Jun 09, 2025

On a ship making its way through foggy water, Elric poses with one foot resting on the gunwales. The aft is decorated with intricate scrollwork that includes a dragon and several demon heads. Elric wears a black winged helm and a regal tunic with yellow accents. Fine silver chainmail shows underneath. The milky white skin of his arms and legs are bare to the elements. His eyes mirror the jewel at his belt as he stares down at the audience gripping Stormbringer while running his free hand along the long black runeblade. The sight of him leaves the crew, armed with swords and spears, shrinking back in fear. — SAILOR ON THE SEAS OF FATE (1976), Acrylic on Illustration Board - 30" X 20"

Over the years, I've illustrated 7 covers featuring Michael Moorcock's doomed anti-hero Elric of Melniboné. I've completed dozens of black and white interiors, sketches, and non-commissioned works following Elric's tragic journey. This painting remains my favorite.

Pencil sketch for THE SAILOR ON THE SEAS OF FATE featuring Elric leaning against the gunwales of the ship as he heroically stares out to the far horizon. His chest is bare except for a strap that runs to his shoulder beneath his cloak. He wears one ornate bracer. — Preliminary sketch for *The Sailor on the Seas of Fate*

Elric derives his strength and magical powers from his sword Stormbringer, which feeds on the souls of those it kills. Those resigned to travel with him are right to be wary as the sword is as likely to consume them as enemies.

Frontispiece for THE SAILOR ON THE SEAS OF FATE featuring a view of Elric from behind as he confronts baboon-like creatures baring fangs at him. — Frontispiece for *The Sailor on the Seas of Fate*

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Details from SAILOR ON THE SEAS OF FATE

Book cover for THE SAILOR ON THE SEAS OF FATE by Michael Moorcock, published by DAW Books. — *The Sailor on the Seas of Fate* by Michael Moorcock (DAW)

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Signed Open Edition Giclée of SAILOR ON THE SEAS OF FATE, conservation framed with acid-free fabric mat, archival plexiglass, and wood frame. — Signed print available in our shop

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Christopher Ottenbreit

Jun 9

What wonderful memories! As soon as I saw the image I knew exactly what novel this cover was used. I loved the entire Elric series. This is a beautiful painting.

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Dave Schwartz

That's a great one, hard for me to pick my favorite tho they're all so good. I have always loved books with black and white interior illustrations. It just adds something special.

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