The artwork, titled “Illustration to Milton’s Paradise Lost,” was created by William Blake in 1807 using watercolor medium. It belongs to the Symbolism art movement and falls within the genre of illustration. This particular piece is part of the series “Illustrations to John Milton – Paradise Lost.”
In the artwork, a central, noble figure stands with arms raised, projecting a sense of power and command. Surrounding this figure are several other muscular, nude forms, some appearing to be bound and in varying states of distress or contemplation, suggesting themes of struggle and suffering. The scene is set against a dark, ominous backdrop with swirling clouds, enhancing the dramatic intensity. The use of light and shadow, along with the figures’ expressive postures, evokes a profound narrative, aligning with the epic and symbolic nature of John Milton’s “Paradise Lost.”
