Plutus
This is an original art print. It is 126 years old.
Artist: Gustave Dore
Type of Print: Original Antique Wood Engraving
Size of Paper: 12 1/2" x 9 3/4"
Size of Image: 9 1/2" x 7 1/2"
Printed in 1887 by Cassell Publishing
Printed on one side only; blank on the reverse. You will receive two sheets of paper; one is the art print and the other is the description.
Condition: Light signs of age. Yellowing around edges of paper. The image area is in excellent condition.
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More Information About the Print:
When preparing to descend into the fourth circle of Hell, Dante and Virgil find their way stopped by Plutus, to whom is assigned the special guardianship of the pit, for it is there that the prodigal and the avaricious are punished. Dante is alarmed at his appearance; but Virgil comforts him, saying —
"'Let not thy fear
Harm thee ; for power in him, be sure, is none
To hinder down this rock thy safe descent.'
Then to that swoln lip turning, ' Peace !' he cried,
' Curst wolf ! thy fury inward on thyself
Prey, and consume thee ! Through the dark profound.
Not without cause, he passes. So 'tis will'd
On high, there where the great Archangel pour'd
Heaven's vengeance on the first adulterer proud.'
" As sails, full spread and bellying with the wind.
Drop suddenly collaps'd, if the mast split ;
So to the ground down dropp'd the cruel fiend."
Satan is here called "the first adulterer" in accordance with an old meaning of the word, signifying one whose affections and desires are in a state of revolt against God,
The figure of Plutus in the illustration is a fine study of the nude. The various muscular developments are beautifully indicated, and the effects of light and shade subtly and delicately interwoven.
