The Army of the Amorites Is Destroyed 

Gustave Doré created this dramatic wood engraving, "The Army of the Amorites is Destroyed," to illustrate a 19th-century edition of the Bible. Doré was a commercially successful artist who made his name illustrating literary classics, and his biblical scenes reflect the religious fervor of his time. Here, we see a chaotic scene of divine intervention. Boulders rain down from the heavens, crushing soldiers and their mounts. This depiction of God's power over earthly armies resonates with the social and political climate of 19th-century Europe, a time of both religious revivalism and social upheaval. Doré's dramatic style and use of light and shadow amplify the sense of awe and terror. It visually narrates the moment of destruction, reinforcing the authority of religious texts. To fully appreciate Doré's work, it's helpful to explore the publishing industry and popular culture of his era. Art historians delve into these contexts to reveal how artists like Doré shaped and reflected the beliefs of their time.