The Fall of Babylon 1569

Philips Galle's "The Fall of Babylon" (1569) is a detailed engraving that depicts the destruction of the ancient city of Babylon. The print is a panoramic view of the city, showing its vast scale and the chaos of its downfall. In the foreground, groups of people are fleeing the city, while in the background, angels descend from the heavens, symbolizing the wrath of God. The intricate detail and dramatic composition make this engraving a powerful example of 16th-century printmaking. This artwork exemplifies the Northern Renaissance style and is a prime example of the engraving technique, which was popular at the time. The scene is taken from the Book of Revelation in the Bible, where the destruction of Babylon represents the downfall of evil and the triumph of good.