“Artaxerxes Granting Liberty to the Jews” is an engraving by Gustave Dore, created circa 1868. The artwork, executed in the medium of engraving, embodies the Romanticism movement and falls under the genre of religious painting. It is part of the series “The Holy Bible” and is currently held in a private collection.
The artwork vividly depicts a historical and religious scene where Artaxerxes, the Persian king, is shown granting liberty to the Jewish people. The composition is elaborate, with a multitude of figures assembled on grand, structured terraces, creating a sense of depth and magnitude. Artaxerxes stands prominently as the central figure, surrounded by his retinue and addressing the Jews, who are gathered below in large numbers. The architectural elements, including towering columns and intricate details, evoke a majestic atmosphere, complementing the solemnity and significance of the event. The detailed and meticulous engraving highlights Dore’s mastery in conveying both grandeur and intricate human expressions within this profound biblical narrative.
