Artwork

The Book of Job: Title Page

The Book of Job:  Title Page, by William Blake, 1825
The Book of Job:  Title Page, by William Blake, 1825

The Book of Job: Title Page is a work on paper by the Romanticist artist William Blake. It dates from 1825 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.
1963.303.1

About this work

If you like this style, look up The Cleveland Museum of Art to see where this is kept.

This is a title page for a book called Illustrations of the Book of Job. The design shows a cloud-like border with angels flying around a central circle. The text is fancy and old-fashioned, with Hebrew letters at the top. Below, it says "Invented & Engraved by William Blake 1825."

The angels have soft, flowing wings and look like they’re floating. The letters in the title are swirled and decorative, almost like they’re dancing. This was printed in London in 1825.

If you like this style, look up The Cleveland Museum of Art to see where this is kept.

Overview

The Book of Job: Title Page, created by William Blake in 1825, serves as the introductory page to his Illustrations of the Book of Job. This engraved work exemplifies the symbolic and imaginative qualities characteristic of Blake’s later period.

Subject & Meaning

The title page’s design revolves around a central circle encircled by flying angels within a cloud-like border, setting a divine and contemplative tone for the exploration of the Book of Job’s themes.

Technique & Style

Blake’s engraving showcases intricate, flowing elements: softly rendered angelic wings, decorative, swirling title lettering, and the incorporation of Hebrew text, blending traditional and imaginative visual languages.

History & Provenance

Engraved and printed in London in 1825, the work is now part of the collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Context

Produced during Blake’s later years, this piece reflects his established role as a Romantic-era artist, blending literary and visual artistry in a uniquely symbolic manner.

Legacy

As part of Blake’s esteemed portfolio, The Book of Job: Title Page contributes to his lasting influence on both visual and literary arts, embodying the era’s romantic and symbolic explorations.

The Book of Job
The Book of Job, William Blake

Artist & collection

Portrait of William Blake

Artist

William Blake

William Blake (28 November 1757 – 12 August 1827) was an English poet, painter and printmaker.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Book of Job: Title Page?

The Book of Job: Title Page was painted by William Blake in 1825.

Where can I see The Book of Job: Title Page?

The Book of Job: Title Page is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Book of Job: Title Page?

The Book of Job: Title Page is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of The Book of Job: Title Page?

Museum-quality prints of The Book of Job: Title Page are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.