GRAVÜR DÜNYASI
Digital Engraving Library
| Artist | William Simpson (1823–1899) |
| Engraver | Edmund Walker (1814-1882) |
| Date | 1856 |
| Technique | Lithography, Sepia-toned |
| Category | Military |
| Source | The Campaign in the Crimea: An Historical Sketch by George Brackenbury, London, Published Oct. 1, 1856 by Paul & Dominic Colnaghi & Co., Day & Son Lithographers to the Queen |
This engraving, which takes its name from a verse in the Bible's book of Psalms, depicts one of the most frightening and symbolic points of the Crimean War, the "Valley of the Shadow of Death". The engraving's name is used metaphorically here. Because this valley, located near the Woronzoff Road, which was used as a supply line by the British Army during the siege of Sevastopol, was a dangerous passage under Russian artillery fire and where British army soldiers came face to face with death. The engraving powerfully conveys to the viewer the devastation of war, the psychological pressure on the soldiers and the gloomy atmosphere of the area. The detailed terrain drawing and the iron balls and ammunition scattered around are a unique document for both military history and war archaeology. William Simpson, who painted this engraving, was a painter and engraver sent to the war zones for The Illustrated London News during the Crimean War.
