Samuel Blesses Saul 

Editor: Right, so, this engraving is titled "Samuel Blesses Saul." It appears to be by Gustave Dore, although there’s no specific date listed for it. The high contrast really gives it a dramatic, almost theatrical quality. What are your initial thoughts on it? Curator: Well, first, look at the way Doré uses light! It's not just illumination, it’s practically a character in itself. Divine light, cascading down. Makes you wonder if he saw light differently, maybe composed an orchestra of shadows instead of painting them? Does it not seem alive, like it is illuminating something in you as well? Editor: I see what you mean about the light. It feels like more than just highlighting the figures; it’s kind of… ethereal? But what about the story behind it? Curator: Ah, context! This is Samuel, the prophet, anointing Saul as the first king of Israel. Think of the weight of that moment, a divine transition of power! See how Samuel towers over Saul, yet Saul kneels willingly? It speaks volumes about acceptance, duty, and destiny...don’t you think it interesting how it portrays divine guidance and human submission? Editor: Yeah, it really does give you that sense of ordained destiny, that even though Saul's being elevated, he's also submitting to something larger than himself. The drama is incredible. I appreciate your personal thoughts as well, thanks! Curator: My pleasure! Hopefully, it nudges us to wonder about where light exists within our own internal, perhaps forgotten landscapes as well!