Satan Before the Throne of God

Satan Before the Throne of God is a profound engraving created by William Blake between 1825 and 1826. Classified as a print, this work showcases the artist's masterful use of line to convey intense spiritual drama, a defining characteristic of his late Romantic style. The visual structure centers on the dramatic theological confrontation between light and darkness, drawing heavily upon biblical narratives.

Blake depicts the supreme authority of God the Father, enthroned amid radiant, stylized angels who frame the action and fill the heavenly space. Contrasting this celestial order is the solitary figure of Satan, characterized by muscular intensity and a defiant posture, standing before the divine presence. The confrontation between these figures and the surrounding men and angels addresses themes of divine law, accusation, and judgment. The composition effectively utilizes the stark black and white contrasts inherent in the engraving medium to highlight the emotional tension inherent in the scene.

This potent illustration reflects Blake’s lifelong preoccupation with biblical narratives, transforming traditional subjects into deeply personal, visionary experiences. The print is held in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), where it serves as a crucial example of early 19th-century British prints. As a significant historical work, the image is frequently studied in educational contexts, with high-quality reproductions often available today through public domain sources.