Artwork
Behemoth and Leviathan

Behemoth and Leviathan is an ink print by the Romanticist artist William Blake. It dates from 1825 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Behemoth and Leviathan is an engraving on India paper created by William Blake in 1825. It is a representative work from his later period, characterized by intricate designs and symbolic themes.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a tumultuous scene of two giant creatures, Behemoth and Leviathan, battling amidst stormy clouds and surrounded by angels holding text. Biblical quotes around the edges contextualize the creatures within ancient narratives, highlighting Blake's use of mythological and prophetic themes.
Technique & Style
The engraving showcases Blake's skill in integrating visual and textual elements. The composition is dense with detail, including symbolic attributes like shields and crowns on the creatures, demonstrating his distinctive style that blends the imaginative with the literal.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
William Blake (28 November 1757 – 12 August 1827) was an English poet, painter and printmaker.















