Artwork

The Circle of the Corrupt Officials; the Devils Tormenting Ciampolo

The Circle of the Corrupt Officials; the Devils Tormenting Ciampolo is an ink print by the Romanticist artist William Blake. It dates from 1827 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1827, this black‑and‑white engraving by William Blake depicts a dramatic encounter between two figures, set against a turbulent, smoky backdrop. The composition is framed by two horned, winged heads that hover in the upper right, adding a supernatural element. Executed in Blake’s later period, the work exemplifies his preoccupation with moral and spiritual conflict.

Subject & Meaning

The scene presents a kneeling man clutching a scroll, his expression wild and bearded, while an upright figure recoils, his face contorted in agony. The presence of demonic, winged heads suggests a punitive or infernal context, aligning with Blake’s recurring exploration of corruption, judgment, and the torment of the soul.

Technique & Style

Blake employed fine, incisive lines to convey the physical tension between the figures, while the surrounding area is rendered with rough, stippled marks that evoke smoke or flame. The stark contrast of black ink on white paper heightens the dramatic intensity, a hallmark of his mature printmaking approach.

History & Provenance

Produced in London during Blake’s final years, the engraving forms part of a broader body of work that gained greater appreciation after his death. Although Blake spent most of his life in the city, a brief residence in Felpham is noted, but this piece was created after his return to the capital, reflecting his continued engagement with Romantic themes.