The Circle of the Corrupt Officials; the Devils Mauling Each Other

William Blake

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of fantastical creatures engaged in a scene. The image depicts two winged figures, seemingly human-like, flying over swirling waters. They appear to be exerting effort or struggling. The background shows a curved pathway or horizon line, with two cloaked figures standing partially hidden. More figures are in the distance, some winged and others in various poses suggesting movement or interaction. The drawing features detailed line work and an imaginative subject matter in a style evocative of classical mythology or fantasy.