The artwork titled “In with the river sunk, and with it rose Satan” is by Gustave Dore, an illustrious artist associated with the Romanticism movement. This piece belongs to the genre of illustration and is part of the “Paradise Lost” series.
In this artwork, a powerful and evocative scene unfolds in a tumultuous river canyon, capturing the dramatic moment described in John Milton’s “Paradise Lost.” At the center, the imposing figure of Satan stands on a high rock, wings partly spread, gazing out over the roaring waters and jagged cliffs. The dynamic composition is characterized by swirling water, rugged cliffs, and a towering waterfall in the background, all rendered with intricate detail and dramatic contrast. The use of chiaroscuro enhances the intensity of the scene, reflecting the turbulent nature of the narrative it illustrates. Through this masterful illustration, Dore brings the epic struggle and grandeur of Milton’s work vividly to life.
