The Book of Job: Pl. 6, And smote Job with sore Boils / from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head

The Book of Job: Pl. 6, And smote Job with sore Boils / from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head by William Blake is a powerful engraving created in 1825. This plate is one entry from Blake’s celebrated set of 22 illustrations dedicated to the Old Testament narrative of Job. Executed late in the artist’s life, this series represents the pinnacle of Blake's achievement as a master printmaker and profound biblical interpreter from the United Kingdom.

The scene captures the moment of profound physical and emotional suffering where the afflicted Job is struck by agonizing boils, as permitted by Satan. Blake renders the biblical narrative with intense psychological drama, employing his characteristic blend of neoclassical linearity and visionary composition. The figures are powerfully expressive, emphasizing the physical pain and emotional despair inflicted upon the righteous man by divine and demonic forces. As an engraving, the intricate detail and sharp definition of line demonstrate Blake’s technical mastery of the demanding reproductive medium.

Created during a crucial period of theological and artistic interpretation, Blake’s series elevates the story of Job from simple suffering to a universal allegory of redemption and faith tested. The enduring spiritual power of the original designs means that subsequent editions and high-quality images of Blake's prints are widely accessible today, with much of his work now falling into the public domain due to its age and historical importance. This specific example of The Book of Job: Pl. 6, And smote Job with sore Boils / from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head is held in the permanent collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.