Artwork

Job's Sacrifice

Job's Sacrifice, by William Blake, ink, 1825
Job's Sacrifice, by William Blake, ink, 1825

Job's Sacrifice is an ink print by the Romanticist artist William Blake. It dates from 1825 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Job's Sacrifice is an engraving on India paper created by William Blake in 1825. The print is a representation of a biblical scene, rendered in a symbolic and imaginative style characteristic of Blake's work.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a central figure standing with outstretched arms, accompanied by two kneeling figures, set against a dark and turbulent background. The scene is linked to the biblical story of Job through the inscription 'And my Servant Job shall pray for you,' conveying themes of suffering and faith.

Technique & Style

Blake employed fine lines and shading to achieve depth and emotional resonance in the print. The engraving technique involved carving intricate details into a metal plate, allowing for the creation of complex and expressive imagery.

Artist & collection

Portrait of William Blake

Artist

William Blake

William Blake (28 November 1757 – 12 August 1827) was an English poet, painter and printmaker.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.