The Destruction of Sodom–Abraham Looking Towards Sodom, from "Dalziels' Bible Gallery" 1865 - 1881

This wood engraving, "The Destruction of Sodom–Abraham Looking Towards Sodom," was created by Thomas Dalziel, sometime in the 19th century, as part of "Dalziels' Bible Gallery". The image reflects the Victorian era's fascination with biblical narratives, often used to explore contemporary moral concerns. Dalziel’s choice to depict this Old Testament story speaks to the period's interest in divine judgment and the consequences of sin. The highly detailed engraving, a popular medium at the time, allowed for wide distribution, embedding these moral lessons within the culture. The artwork's dark tones and dramatic composition would have resonated with a society grappling with rapid industrialization and social change. The Dalziel brothers were key players in the print industry, producing illustrations for books and periodicals that shaped public opinion and taste. Further research into Victorian religious practices and the Dalziel brothers' publishing activities would provide deeper insight into the cultural impact of this image.