The Circle Of The Corrupt Officials - The Devils Tormenting Campolo
Artist
William Blake
(English, 1757-1827)
CultureEnglish
Dateca. 1826-27
MediumEngraving
DimensionsOverall: 10 3/4 x 13 1/2 in. (27.3 x 34.3 cm)
Overall, Frame: 17 1/2 x 23 1/2 in. (44.5 x 59.7 cm)
Overall, Frame: 17 1/2 x 23 1/2 in. (44.5 x 59.7 cm)
PortfolioIllustrations of Dante's "Divine Comedy"
Credit LineGift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr.
Object number71.2208.3
Not on view
DescriptionA ‘barrator’ sells political power or favour for money. Dante describes Ciampolo being punished for this sin by devils called the ‘Malebanche’ (Evil Claws). Blake, however, gives the devils the faces of respectable gentlemen, using elegant sticks and hooks to tear at Ciampolo. Their humanisation and sophistication may add a sinister edge to their unpleasantness, suggesting the hidden side of ostensibly upright members of society.
Jan Philips van Thielen
1651
1953
