Their summons called From every band and squared regiment By place or choice the worthies Gustave Dore (1832-1883)

The drawing presents a dramatic scene of ascent and upheaval, rendered in meticulous detail through extensive cross-hatching that creates a palpable sense of texture and depth. A large group of figures is depicted surging upwards from a chaotic base towards a luminous, undefined source of light positioned high above. The composition is structured around a central hill or mound, which serves as the focal point for this upward movement.
At the lower portion of the image, individuals on horseback dominate the foreground. Their postures are dynamic and urgent, suggesting an immediate impetus to climb. Some raise their arms in gestures that could be interpreted as supplication, triumph, or a combination thereof. The horses themselves appear agitated, further contributing to the sense of unrestrained energy.
Above these riders, a throng of figures ascends, many with outstretched arms mirroring those below. Their faces are largely obscured by shadow and distance, yet their collective upward thrust reinforces the overall theme of striving and aspiration. Interspersed among them are winged figures, some appearing as angelic beings, others possessing more ambiguous or even menacing features. These winged entities add a layer of complexity to the narrative, hinting at divine intervention or perhaps a supernatural force guiding the ascent.
The upper portion of the drawing is characterized by an intense luminosity emanating from behind the assembled crowd. This light source is not clearly defined but appears as a radiant glow that bathes the figures in its brilliance. The effect is one of transcendence and revelation, suggesting a destination beyond earthly comprehension.
Subtly, theres a sense of hierarchy within the group. While all are striving upwards, some appear to be positioned higher than others, perhaps indicating varying degrees of worthiness or spiritual attainment. The contrast between the dark, turbulent base and the luminous summit creates a visual metaphor for the journey from earthly struggles towards a state of enlightenment or divine grace. The drawing’s power lies in its ability to convey both the intensity of human ambition and the elusive nature of ultimate fulfillment.