Blinding of Elymas c. 1807

John Constable's "Blinding of Elymas" (c. 1807) is a dramatic black chalk drawing depicting the biblical story of the sorcerer Elymas, who attempts to obstruct the preaching of the apostle Paul, but is struck blind by God. Constable, known for his landscapes, shows his skill in capturing human emotion and the dynamism of a narrative scene. This drawing, now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, provides a glimpse into the early work of the artist and his interest in religious subjects. The artist’s detailed depiction of the figures and their expressions effectively conveys the intensity of the moment.