Mathieu Gabella

This entire series' trademark was great art. Story wise they were true to the original source, and accordingly art was more mature-oriented, and I mean that not just by nudity but also by level of gore and intense fights and dreadful creatures that are peppered all over the Conan's stories.

But trademark was always great art. And this volume is something that looks and feels like it is being ripped from the movie. Shades, sheer size and grandeur of the characters (just look at Conan in the first story, very interesting presentation of the character btw, his sheer presence on the pages from exiting the bushes at the very start, he just controls the space around him, making clear to everyone he is not to be messed up with and how bloody and gory faith will be of anyone trying to cross his path) , hulking fortresses and huge battlefields, horrifying beasts and unimaginable sorcery (Hour of the Dragon is fantastic, pure joy).

While reading you feel like you are looking at the art book, fantasy concept art. Every panel would make a great wallpaper.

Highly, highly recommended to fans of Conan, general fantasy and especially fine arts.… (more)