The Crucifixion 

Gustave Doré made this wood engraving of ‘The Crucifixion’ sometime during his career as a Bible illustrator in 19th century France. Doré's dramatic style and choice of subject matter place the image within a long tradition of Christian art. But consider how the image, through its style and medium, creates meaning for its contemporary audience. The rise of the printing press allowed images such as this to be disseminated to an increasingly wide audience. Wood engraving allowed for a high level of detail and contrast, suiting the tastes of an era fascinated by science and realism. The choice of the crucifixion scene – a moment of suffering and sacrifice – also speaks to a cultural mood. France at this time was experiencing rapid social change with increasing levels of poverty and dislocation. Understanding the social and institutional context of Doré’s work provides a powerful lens through which to view it. To find out more, look to the history of 19th-century French print culture.