The Suicides Gustave Dore (1832-1883)

Here we observe a stark depiction rendered in black and white engraving. The scene unfolds on what appears to be a precipitous cliff face, its contours defined by dense, swirling lines that suggest both geological formation and turbulent motion. A group of figures are clustered near the edge, their bodies intertwined in a chaotic mass.
The composition is dominated by a sense of downward momentum. Several individuals are actively leaping or falling from the height, their limbs extended in postures of desperation or surrender. The artist has employed a technique that blurs individual identities; the figures appear as a collective entity rather than distinct persons. This contributes to an overall impression of overwhelming despair and loss of individuality.
The lines used to depict the cliff face are not merely descriptive but also expressive, conveying a feeling of instability and impending doom. The dense network of lines creates a visual texture that is both unsettling and captivating. They seem to echo the psychological turmoil experienced by those depicted.
A horizontal element – a dark band – cuts across the middle ground, further emphasizing the chasm below and reinforcing the sense of finality. This line acts as a visual barrier between the figures and any potential escape or redemption.
The accompanying text provides context, referring to an event involving two soldiers upon one half-land isle, Nadir and Azimabad, being so far unduly, / That at the foot of the land they broke away (1857). This suggests a historical narrative of tragedy and loss, likely related to conflict or political upheaval. The phrase “broke away” is particularly significant; it implies not only physical separation but also a severing from hope or allegiance.
The engraving’s monochromatic palette amplifies the somber mood. The absence of color contributes to a feeling of bleakness and austerity, reinforcing the gravity of the depicted event. Overall, the work conveys a powerful message about despair, collective trauma, and the fragility of human existence in the face of overwhelming circumstances.