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The Library Acquires Gustave Dore Texts

Two new acquisitions give the Museum's Jean Outland Chrysler Library an almost complete set of books illustrated by Gustave Dore in either first or second editions. Although Dore was known for his paintings-notably the Neophyte (1866-68) that belongs to Chrysler's Permanent Collection--in his own time he was widely celebrated as a book illustrator.

Gustave Dore (French, 1832-1883)
The Neophyte (First Experience of the Monastery), c. 1866-68
Oil on canvas, 57 3/8 x 107 1/2 inches
Gift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr.
Copyright Chrysler Museum of Art, Norfolk, VA

The Dore Bible is a two-volume deluxe first edition with a gilt-tooled green Moroccan leather cover. The Bible contains 238 engravings by Dore and at the time of publication in 1886, it cost more than most people's annual wages. They are arguably the most famous Bible illustrations ever made. Many of legendary director Cecil B. DeMille's movie scenes are based on Dore prints. The Library also acquired the first edition of Purgatory and Paradise, parts two and three of Dante's Divine Comedy, also illustrated by Dore.

For More Information or Images Please Contact the Chrysler at (757) 664-6200 or museum@chrysler.org

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