Opening of the Sixth Seal 1555

Jean Duvet's "Opening of the Sixth Seal" (1555) is a dramatic engraving that depicts the apocalyptic events described in the Book of Revelation. The scene is filled with a chaotic mix of angels, demons, and humans, all caught in the midst of divine judgment. The top of the composition features Christ, sitting upon a cloud and surrounded by angels. Below, the earth is shown as a scene of widespread destruction and suffering, with the dead rising from their graves. The artist's masterful use of line and shading creates a powerful sense of depth and movement, giving the viewer a glimpse into the chaos of the Last Judgment. This print, now housed in the Art Institute of Chicago, is a testament to Duvet's skill and imagination as a Renaissance artist.