Evil
published September 2, 1816
Medium
Engraving on ivory China paper, laid down on ivory laid paper (chine collé)
Dimensions
Image: 30.9 × 22.3 cm (12 3/16 × 8 13/16 in.); Plate: 36.7 × 24.7 cm (14 1/2 × 9 3/4 in.); Primary support: 35.8 × 23.7 cm (14 1/8 × 9 3/8 in.); Secondary support: 43.5 × 30.6 cm (17 3/16 × 12 1/16 in.)
Classification
engraving
Department
Prints and Drawings
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
138083
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Sharp transcended Le Brun’s codified expressions of fear and hate when he reproduced the unhinged expression of Michelangelo’s ultimate fiend. Despite the figure’s inhuman screams, Sharp suggested the wicked would not prevail forever, for, according to Psalm 37 (cited on the print’s final state): “The wicked plot against the righteous; and gnash their teeth at them; but the Lord laughs at the wicked, for he knows their day is coming.”
About the Artist
William Sharp · 1749–1824
British, London 1749–1824 London