“The Ghost of a Flea” is an artwork created by William Blake between the years 1819 and 1820. Executed in tempera on panel, this mythological painting stands at dimensions of 21.5 x 16 cm. It is part of the Symbolism art movement and is currently located at the Tate Modern in London, UK.
The artwork portrays an eerie, humanoid figure, seemingly otherworldly in nature, characterized by its exaggerated musculature and grotesque features. The creature, which Blake perceived in a vision, is depicted standing upright with a bowl in its hand, suggestive of ritualistic or symbolic action. The background consists of an abstract, dark environment punctuated by stars, lending an atmospheric and mystical aura to the scene. The use of dark, muted colors enhances the spectral quality of the form, confirming Blake’s unique vision and contribution to Symbolism. His characteristic inscription, reading “WBlake 1820,” is seen on the right side of the artwork.
