Heavy with appetite and heavier with irony.

This piece features Behemoth, illustrated in 1863 by French artist Louis Le Breton for Dictionnaire Infernal, Jacques Collin de Plancy’s encyclopedic catalog of demons. In Victorian demonology, Behemoth embodied indulgence — earthly appetite rendered as allegory. A historic example of 19th century French demonology illustration.

Le Breton’s interpretation is less terrifying than theatrical: a stout, elephantine figure clutching his exaggerated belly with operatic seriousness. Equal parts absurd and symbolic, the engraving feels strangely modern in its self-awareness.

Design Perspective

• Authentic 19th century French engraving aesthetic
• Victorian gothic illustration with dry, academic irony
• Bold monochrome statement art for modern interiors
• A museum-core conversation piece for the tastefully unusual

Placement Ideas

• Dining rooms with a sense of humor
• Kitchens that appreciate excess
• Libraries that don’t take themselves too seriously
• Gallery walls built around bold, historic illustration

Part of the Dictionnaire Infernal 1863 Collection by Geekists — a curated series of French gothic engravings reinterpreted for contemporary interiors.