Samuel bidt God om regen 1691 - 1767

Louis Surugue created this print, "Samuel Prays to God for Rain," sometime between the late 17th and early 18th centuries. In this scene, the prophet Samuel is depicted kneeling, arms raised in supplication, amidst a crowd of figures reacting with fear and awe to the divine display of power. Let's consider the historical context. Surugue was working in an era marked by significant religious and political upheaval. Religious narratives were often used to convey moral lessons and reinforce societal norms. What is so interesting about this, is how it depicts the relationship between humanity and divinity. The emotional intensity captured in the figures' faces, from terror to reverence, invites us to contemplate the power dynamics at play. The lightning and dark sky can almost make us feel the fear experienced by the community. How does Surugue's depiction challenge or reinforce existing power structures?