The Deluge towards Its Close 1810 - 1816

Joshua Shaw created "The Deluge towards Its Close" with oil on canvas. Born in England, Shaw later emigrated to the United States, and he likely painted this after his move. The painting illustrates the biblical flood, a narrative freighted with themes of divine judgment and purification. Yet, Shaw painted it during a time of significant social upheaval, including the market revolution and westward expansion in the United States. Consider the emotional weight of this scene: bodies strewn across the landscape, a chilling reminder of vulnerability. Are these the bodies of the damned, or are they testaments to human resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy? As you reflect on the painting, think about how historical narratives influence the way we understand catastrophes, both natural and man-made, and how artists help us envision them.