“Ephialtes” is an artwork by Gustave Dore, associated with the Romanticism art movement. It is an illustration and part of the series “The Divine Comedy.” The artwork displays a dramatic scene in keeping with the Romantic style, emphasizing intense emotion and dynamic composition.
In the artwork, several imposing, muscular figures are chained and bound, conveying a sense of torment and suffering. These larger-than-life characters appear confined within a rugged, desolate landscape. One prominent figure on the left leans forward in shackles, displaying a fierce expression of struggle. The meticulous detailing of the muscles and the harsh textures of the chains contribute to a feeling of overwhelming oppression. In the foreground, smaller figures are seen, possibly illustrating an encounter with these titanic beings within the narrative of “The Divine Comedy.” The intricate linework and shading technique add depth and intensity, highlighting Gustave Dore’s masterful illustrative style.
