The Doré Bible Illustrations

In 1865, Gustave Dore illustrated an edition of the Bible with drawings that are popular to this day. This collection of Dore's 241 Bible plates from Dover Publications sells for a very reasonable price. I think some of Dore's illustrations are wonderful. Among my favorites are a portrait of Amos, Jesus and the woman of Samaria, and the arrival of the Good Samaritan at the inn. One thing that makes Dore's illustrations engaging is the fact that he sometimes chose to illustrate stories that are not well known. Examples include the stoning of Achan (Joshua 7:12, 24, 25) and the Levite finding the corpse of the woman (Judges 19:26, 27.) I found a number of these illustrations so compelling and sad that I went to the Bible to learn the stories. If you wish to become familiar with lesser-known parts of the Bible, perusing Dore's illustrations is one way to motivate yourself. I must add a word of caution. Some of Dore's black and white engravings are very graphic and unappealing to me. His rendition of David with Goliath's severed head, for instance, is one I would never share with a child. Nonetheless, if you look at Dore's illustrations, I think you'll find them thought provoking and well done.

THE DORE BIBLE ILLUSTRATIONS is the most highly praised and famous series of pencil drawings (turned into fine woodcuts by artisan engravers) crafted by the celebrated French illustrator, Paul Gustave Doré (1833-1883). These illustrations are inspired and memorable containing depictions of popular scenes and personalities as idealized conceptions, poetic and fanciful, from both the Jewish and Christian, biblical traditions. Doré's talent is mystically potent with his dramatic, chariscura renderings of moody heavens and skies; panoramic vistas and landscapes; and grand buildings and interiors, all to frame the engaging, spiritual dramas of salvation history. A moving, gallery stroll for young and old alike.

Who better to do this work than Gustave Dore? No one! A master craftsman and artist, these illustrations are inspired genius.The amount of work involved, the imagination, and the mastery of light are something to behold, ponder and enjoy.The work compliments the subject matter perfectly! We're blessed that these works have been passed down to us, as you just won't see this type of work anymore, not by hand and I doubt even by computer!

The Dore Bible Illustrations are magnificent. One looks at them and marvels at their intricasy and sensitivity. Everyone who sees this book asks how to obtain a copy. It is a brilliant and bright look backwards, like a trip to Sunday school. Special care has been taken to bind the book so that it will lie flat. Dover permits the use of the plates for creative endeavors, so for all the enthusiasts who like to make Greeting Cards for friends using scanned images, this is a wonderful tool. I highly recommend this book for every person who believes in Christ and I know this is wonderful to read and ponder before bedtime.