The Circle of the Traitors; Dante's Foot Striking Bocca degli Abbate
1827
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From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1827
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From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows a chaotic scene with two tall, robed figures standing on a rocky shore. One figure points upward while the other holds a staff. Below them, a group of people lie face-down in the water, their bodies twisted in pain. In the background, a waterfall crashes down, and a hooded figure kneels near the edge. The artist used sharp lines and heavy shading to create drama and movement. Notice how the figures’ faces are blurred, adding to the sense of urgency. Want to see more? Look up engraving to learn how artists like Blake carved intricate details into metal plates.
