The image depicts several figures in a dramatic scene. One figure appears to be pulling or reaching toward another, who seems to be recoiling or retreating. The figure on the left is pulling away, while the central figure on the right is extending a hand towards them. Behind the central figure, there are more figures intertwined. The background features swirling lines suggesting a stormy environment, with clouds and waves. Angular shapes and muscular forms enhance the intensity and drama, complemented by detailed etching work on the figures and landscape.
Gallery mode Full size at the museum

The Circle of the Corrupt Officials; the Devils Tormenting Ciampolo

William Blake (British, 1757 - 1827)

printer Harry Hoehn (American, 1918 - 1974)

1827, printed 1968

Medium
engraving [restrike]
Classification
Print
Dimensions
sheet: 38 × 45.8 cm (14 15/16 × 18 1/16 in.)
Culture
British
Museum
National Gallery of Art, CG-E
Credit line
Rosenwald Collection
Rights
Public domain (NGA Open Access, CC0), as the museum states it.
Who can see it
Teens profiles and older: its subject is for older viewers (war, death, the Passion, drink or the like). How works are placed

View at the National Gallery of Art

More by William Blake

See all

More Romanticism

See all