Keeper of the Dead

Keeper of the Dead was released in 1998 as part of the Exodus expansion for the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Developed by Wizards of the Coast, Exodus served as the final set in the Rath Cycle, a narrative-driven block that introduced complex mechanics and expanded the game's high-fantasy multiverse. This card, a black creature type with a macabre aesthetic, reflects the set's focus on dark, graveyard-themed interactions that were prevalent in the game's early years.

The artwork for this card was illustrated by Kev Walker, a prolific artist whose contributions helped define the visual identity of Magic during the late 1990s. Walker opted for a haunting, visceral depiction of the character, aligning with the gothic sensibilities favored by the design team during the Rath Cycle. While the card is generally regarded as a niche functional piece by competitive players, its artistic execution remains a representative example of Walker’s signature style during his formative period with the game.