Artwork
The Circle of the Falsifiers: Dante and Virgil Covering their Noses because of the stench
The Circle of the Falsifiers: Dante and Virgil Covering their Noses because of the stench 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
This engraving, a restrike created by William Blake in 1827, depicts a scene from Dante's Inferno. It is part of Blake's later work, characteristic of the Romantic Age.
Subject & Meaning
The scene shows Dante and Virgil in the eighth circle of Hell, reacting to the stench emitted by falsifiers. The figures are set against a chaotic, rocky landscape with a dark, swirling sky.
Technique & Style
Blake employed fine lines and shading to convey depth and texture, particularly in the cliffs and clouds. The level of detail achieved through engraving allowed for a dramatic representation of the scene.
Context
The work is inspired by Dante's Inferno, reflecting Blake's engagement with literary sources and his use of symbolism.
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 Falsifiers: Dante and Virgil Covering their Noses because of the st
The Circle of the Falsifiers; Dante and Virgil Covering their Noses because of the stench
The Circle of the Falsifiers: Dante and Virgil Covering their Noses because of the st
The Circle of the Traitors; Dante's Foot Striking Bocca degli Abbate
The Circle of the Traitors; Dante's Foot Striking Bocca degli Abbate
The Circle of the Traitors; Dante's Foot Striking Bocca degli Abbate
The Circle of the Traitors; Dante's Foot Striking Bocca degli Abbate
The Circle of the Traitors: Dante's Foot Strriking Bocca degli Abbate, from Dante's Inferno, Canto XXXII Illustration to Dante's The Divine Comedy
The Circle of the Traitors; Dante's Foot Striking Bocca degli Abbate