The Great Flood

Charles Eisen

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a chaotic deluge scene. The scene depicts a flood where figures appear to be struggling amidst a torrential downpour. A tumultuous sea or river overwhelms the landscape, with many bodies seemingly battling the elements, climbing and clinging to rocks, and some attempting to reach higher ground. The craggy outcrops and the swirling waters add to the drama and desperation of the scene. The sky above is filled with thick, dark clouds. The drawing is framed in an ornate border.