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
The Circle of the Corrupt Officials; The Devils Tormenting Ciampolo is an engraving created by William Blake in 1827, a restrike from his later years.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a chaotic scene of a man being tormented by horned, winged creatures, drawing on Dantean themes and Blake's imaginative vision. The morally charged landscape reflects Blake's broader engagement with symbolic and dense imagery.
Technique & Style
Blake employed cross-hatching, using fine lines to build up shadows and detail, creating a dramatic and intense atmosphere. The technique contributes to the chaotic feel of the scene, with swirling lines and rough textures.
History & Provenance
Produced in London, where Blake spent most of his life, the engraving is a product of his later years, following a brief period in Felpham.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
William Blake (28 November 1757 – 12 August 1827) was an English poet, painter and printmaker.
The Circle of the Corrupt Officials; the Devils Tormenting Ciampolo
The Circle of the Corrupt Officials; the Devils Tormenting Ciampolo
The Circle of the Corrupt Officials; the Devils Tormenting Ciampolo
The Circle of the Corrupt Officials; the Devils Tormenting Ciampolo
The Circle of the Corrupt Officials; the Devils Mauling Each Other
The Circle of the Thieves; Buoso Donati Attacked by the Serpent
The Circle of the Thieves; Buoso Donati Attacked by the Serpent
The Circle of the Thieves; Buoso Donati Attacked by the Serpent
The Circle of the Corrupt Officials; The Devils Mauling Each Other
The Circle of the Traitors; Dante's Foot Striking Bocca degli Abbate