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Christian Martyrs

Gustave Doré

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of an angelic figure and fallen individuals within a grand architectural setting. The drawing presents a somber scene. In the foreground, there are individuals lying on the ground, dressed in long robes, some motionless. One of these figures features a faint halo above its head. The upper portion of the drawing is dominated by an angel with outstretched wings, descending from above. The background features an architectural element reminiscent of a theater or amphitheater, with curved arches and tiered seating. The use of muted tones and careful shading highlights the ethereal quality of the angel and the solemnity of the tableau below.

Artwork Details

Date
1869/1871
Medium
black chalk and brown washes, heightened with white, on wove paper
Dimensions
6759 × 8096 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original