The Fall of Satan

The Fall of Satan by William Blake, created in 1825, is a powerful example of the visionary British art produced during the late Romantic era, specifically the period between 1801 and 1825. Executed as an engraving on thick paper, this work demonstrates Blake's lifelong commitment to illustrating profound theological and epic themes, particularly those concerning divine rebellion and spiritual consequence. The classification as part of a portfolio suggests the piece was intended for publication alongside other major illustrations, likely associated with figures such as Milton or Dante.

Blake utilized the precise, sharp quality of the engraving process to render the dramatic descent of the rebellious angels from the heavens. Characteristic of his highly individualized style, the composition emphasizes expressive, contorted figures and dynamic movement rather than realistic spatial representation, thereby reflecting the sublime and non-physical nature of the subject. The graphic intensity of the lines and the stark contrast inherent in the print medium effectively convey the chaos and majesty of the expulsion from the divine presence.

This striking depiction of celestial conflict resides in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art, where it is preserved as an important artifact of early 19th-century British printmaking. While the original engraving required painstaking effort, the medium allowed Blake’s dramatic vision to be reproduced and circulated more broadly. Due to the historical and cultural significance of Blake’s illustrations, high-quality prints of his final period works circulate globally today, ensuring that complex pieces like The Fall of Satan remain widely accessible, with many reproductions now available within the public domain.