Forthwith upright he rears from off the pool His mighty stature Gustave Dore (1832-1883)

The engraving presents a dramatic scene centered around a figure emerging from water. He rises with considerable force, his posture suggesting both struggle and renewed power. The artist has positioned him at the crest of a wave, emphasizing his ascent and the turbulent nature of his emergence. His body is muscular and sculpted, conveying strength and resilience.
Standing on elevated ground to the left, a winged figure observes this event. This individual possesses an air of authority and solemnity; their posture is upright, hands raised in what appears to be either a gesture of blessing or perhaps restraint. The wings are prominently displayed, reinforcing a sense of divine presence or otherworldly power.
The composition utilizes strong contrasts between light and shadow, achieved through meticulous cross-hatching. This technique creates depth and texture, enhancing the emotional intensity of the moment. The water itself is rendered with considerable detail, its surface agitated by the figure’s emergence. The background features a dark, stormy sky, adding to the overall sense of drama and foreboding.
Subtly, the engraving explores themes of transformation and redemption. The act of rising from the water can be interpreted as symbolic rebirth or purification. The winged figures presence introduces an element of judgment or divine intervention, suggesting a larger narrative at play. There is a palpable tension between the struggling figure’s ascent and the watchful gaze of the other, hinting at a complex relationship – perhaps one of conflict, guidance, or even salvation. The overall effect is one of profound significance, inviting contemplation on themes of human struggle, divine power, and the possibility of renewal.