Why greedily thus bendest more on me than on these other filthy ones thy ken Gustave Dore (1832-1883)

The drawing presents a stark visual dichotomy between observer and observed, set within a claustrophobic, geological landscape. A solitary figure stands atop a raised platform or ledge, clad in flowing robes that suggest authority or perhaps detachment. The individual is positioned with their back largely turned, head bowed as if in contemplation or sorrow, directing attention towards the scene unfolding below.
Below this elevated position lies a body of water populated by numerous human figures struggling within it. Their postures are characterized by desperation and exertion; arms reach upwards, faces contort in expressions of anguish, and bodies thrash against an unseen force. The artist has rendered these individuals with varying degrees of detail, some appearing almost skeletal or emaciated, emphasizing their suffering and vulnerability.
The surrounding environment contributes significantly to the overall mood. Towering rock walls enclose the scene, creating a sense of confinement and hopelessness. The lack of light source intensifies the darkness, further amplifying the feeling of despair. The meticulous rendering of the rock formations – the cracks, fissures, and uneven surfaces – adds texture and depth to the composition while also suggesting an oppressive weight bearing down on those trapped within.
Subtextually, the drawing appears to explore themes of judgment, suffering, and perhaps a sense of moral responsibility. The figure’s posture suggests a distance from the plight of those below, prompting questions about empathy and accountability. The water itself could be interpreted as symbolic of sin or punishment, while the figures struggle represents their attempts to escape an inescapable fate. The composition invites reflection on the nature of human suffering and the potential for both compassion and indifference in the face of it. The deliberate contrast between the figure’s relative comfort and the others’ torment creates a powerful visual commentary on social hierarchy and moral obligation.