De herder verjaagt de wolf

"De herder verjaagt de wolf," created by the visionary English artist William Blake between 1820 and 1821, is classified as a print executed on paper. This late work depicts a dramatic, allegorical scene consistent with Blake's profound spiritual and poetic interests. The composition centers on a shepherd actively confronting a wolf, a powerful image historically symbolizing the protection of innocence against forces of chaos or evil. Executed late in the artist’s life, this piece reflects a period where Blake was intensely focused on illustrating complex biblical, classical, and mythological narratives, often integrating deep moral lessons into his visual art.

Blake’s characteristic style, which blends rigorous figure drawing with intensely imaginative and sometimes mystical settings, is evident in the dynamic portrayal of the struggle between the figures. As a key figure in British Romanticism, Blake consistently employed the medium of prints to circulate his complex moral and aesthetic visions to a wider audience. Although the specific printmaking technique employed for this work—whether engraving, etching, or relief printing—is not detailed, the precise line work and forceful contrast define the mood. This piece showcases Blake’s mastery of graphic arts as a means of conveying deeply felt spiritual truths.

This significant print belongs to the esteemed collection of the Rijksmuseum, contributing to the museum's extensive holdings of international graphic arts from the early 19th century. The powerful subject matter and stylistic intensity of De herder verjaagt de wolf make it an important example of Blake's late period. Due to its historical importance, and the passage of time since its creation, high-quality reproductions and prints derived from this design are frequently available within the public domain.