Daniel Interpreting the Writing on the Wall 1866

Editor: We are looking at Gustave Dore’s "Daniel Interpreting the Writing on the Wall," an etching from 1866. I'm immediately struck by how theatrical and overwhelming it is, with all that dramatic Baroque flair and detail. What is your take on this piece? Curator: Theatrical indeed! Dore was a master of drama. It's like he's captured the very moment the divine barges into human affairs. The composition, crammed with figures, ornate architecture... it mirrors the sheer panic and awe described in the biblical text. Have you noticed the almost chaotic detail? It almost feels intentionally overwhelming. Editor: It really does! It's as though he's trying to show the impossibility of fully grasping the divine will. Curator: Precisely. Dore’s art always treads this fascinating line between illustrating the sacred and injecting it with his own wildly imaginative, and sometimes even skeptical, vision. Do you think he believes the drama, or is he just putting on a great show? Editor: That's a really interesting question. Perhaps a bit of both? I'm now wondering if the very high level of detail and stark contrasts add to a feeling of uncertainty rather than providing clarity about what is transpiring. Curator: A thought to chew on, yes. Dore definitely invites that sort of introspection, questioning the very nature of faith and spectacle. It makes the work timeless, doesn't it? Editor: Absolutely! I never thought an etching could feel so epic, or leave you with such questions. Thanks, it certainly makes me appreciate Dore's narrative depth. Curator: My pleasure! The image and drama remain potent, even today!