Sower of Discord Gustave Dore (1832-1883)

The drawing presents a chaotic scene unfolding within a confined space, likely a rocky enclosure or cave. A central figure, identifiable as a male with a bag slung over his shoulder, is actively scattering objects – seemingly seeds or small stones – across the assembled group. This individual occupies a position of agency, initiating an action that directly impacts those around him.
The composition is dominated by a cluster of human figures in various states of disarray and conflict. Some appear to be wrestling with one another, their bodies intertwined in a tangle of limbs. Others are recoiling from the scattered objects, exhibiting expressions of surprise or distress. The artist has rendered these individuals with considerable detail, emphasizing muscularity and contorted postures that convey struggle and emotional turmoil.
Below this group, livestock – cows and what appears to be a bull – are depicted in a similarly agitated state. They are positioned closer to the viewer, their forms contributing to the overall sense of disorder and unrest. A smaller, winged figure, possibly representing a deity or mythological character, stands at the lower right corner, holding a staff and observing the unfolding events with an ambiguous expression.
The use of hatching and cross-hatching creates a strong chiaroscuro effect, enhancing the dramatic intensity of the scene. The limited tonal range contributes to a sense of grimness and foreboding. The rocky environment itself seems to press in on the figures, amplifying their confinement and vulnerability.
Subtly, the drawing suggests themes of societal disruption and moral corruption. The figure scattering objects can be interpreted as an instigator of conflict, sowing seeds of discord among a seemingly vulnerable population. The inclusion of livestock hints at a broader impact, affecting not only human society but also the natural order. The detached observer – the winged figure – implies a sense of divine judgment or inevitable consequence for the actions depicted. Overall, the drawing conveys a narrative of chaos and moral decay, prompting reflection on the destructive potential of manipulation and the fragility of social harmony.