Wrath, from the 'Seven Deadly Sins' 1545 - 1560

Léon Davent created this print, Wrath, from the 'Seven Deadly Sins' in the mid-16th century. The circular composition is densely packed with figures enacting a scene of violent retribution, all rendered in meticulous detail through engraving. The artist's masterful use of line creates a sense of depth and frenetic energy. The figures are tightly interwoven, their actions converging towards the centre where acts of violence are taking place. Davent uses light and shadow to heighten the dramatic intensity, emphasizing the contorted bodies and anguished expressions of the figures. The architectural backdrop, engulfed in flames, provides a stage for the unfolding drama. The scene challenges conventional notions of justice by highlighting the raw, destructive power of human emotion. The work invites us to reflect on the darker aspects of human nature and the potential consequences of unchecked anger. This is not merely a depiction of violence, but a contemplation on the psychological and societal impacts of wrath.