Witchcraft painting, also known as witches' sabbath or witches' revel, is a genre of painting that depicts scenes of witchcraft, sorcery, and occult rituals. It emerged in the late medieval period and gained popularity in the Renaissance and Baroque eras. These paintings often portray witches in various activities such as dancing, flying on broomsticks, and communing with supernatural beings. Witchcraft paintings often feature dark and eerie landscapes, moonlit nights, and gloomy atmospheres. They evoke a sense of mystery and the unknown, capturing the imagination of viewers. These artworks frequently include elements of folklore and mythology, incorporating symbols associated with witchcraft, like black cats, cauldrons, and pentagrams.

Why Artists Have Been Enchanted by Witchcraft for Centuries

Illumination depicting the two witches on a broomstick and a stick, in Martin Le Franc's Le Champion des dames ("Ladies' Champion"), 1451. Image via Wikimedia Commons.

The history of witchcraft in Western art is a tale with a dramatic plot twist. Throughout the 1400s, witches began appearing in European illustrations and woodcuts as demonic creatures with deviant sexual habits: Broomsticks were stand-ins for phalluses, and nude women rode backwards on goats. Throughout the next 400 years, around 80,000 Europeans—80 percent of them women—were killed for alleged witchcraft. Their “crimes” ranged from causing male impotence to damaging property and worshipping Satan. In the 1800s, occult spirituality was suddenly back in vogue. Women began reclaiming sorcery for themselves, in both their lives and their art.

Fast forward to 2019: Witches are alive and well, from Bucharest to Los Angeles. They’re casting spells, making enchanting artwork, and cursing world leaders. It’s certainly an improvement from the days of witch burnings, but gender inequality is still evident in contemporary spiritual and aesthetic practices. Ideally, women would have enough power and influence to make magical activity redundant. By tracing the history of witchcraft in art, we reveal just how far we’ve come—and how far we still have to go.

These artworks frequently include elements of folklore and mythology, incorporating symbols associated with witchcraft, like black cats, cauldrons, and pentagrams. One notable example of witchcraft painting is Francisco Goya's "The Witches' Sabbath." Painted in 1821-1823, this masterpiece depicts a gathering of witches and demons, engaging in rituals and revelry.

Early-modern wicked witches of the West

Albrecht Dürer, The Four Witches, ca. 1497. Image via Wikimedia Commons.

The first known Western artwork depicting witches on broomsticks appears in an illustrated manuscript of a poem, “Le Champion des Dames” (1451), by French writer Martin Le Franc. To the left of Le Franc’s calligraphic text fly two women in long dresses—one pumpkin-hued, the other the color of a carnation. Light cloths cover their hair, and they look up towards the sky. They’re labeled as “Waldensians,” hailing from an ascetic Christian sect. French lore derided the group as heretical, imagining that its women flew through the sky on twig brooms.

“Some of the most powerful images of the diabolical nature of witchcraft produced in the fifteenth century depicted witches as part of a group, and were shaped by contemporary notions of heresy and apostasy,” wrote Charles Zika in The Appearance of Witchcraft (2007). Heretics, of course, were more frightening in large numbers, as they created a more significant threat to the status quo. If one witch was scary, a flying coven was downright terrifying.

Frans Francken the Younger, Witches' Sabbath, 1606. Courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

German artist Albrecht Dürer’s famous prints of witches followed this model. His engraving The Witch (ca. 1500) features a nude figure: The titular character has long, wavy hair; a muscular physique; and breasts. Small, winged boys surround the witch, as though worshipping her. The Four Witches (ca. 1497), another Dürer engraving, depicts a tidy, symmetrical coven of four nude women.

Charlotte-Rose Millar, a research fellow from the University of Queensland, noted that some of “the most gruesome and evocative witchcraft images” come from Dürer’s homeland of Germany. That’s not surprising, she said, “given that 50 percent of witchcraft executions took place in the Holy Roman Empire, a large geo-political unit including Germany.”

Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, Circe changing the companions of Ulysses into beasts, 1650–1651. Courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Millar pointed out an ironic dichotomy in early-modern witchcraft imagery: Witches were either young and seductive or old and haggard. The former group could supposedly join with the devil to make men lose control of their senses, while the latter, post-menopausal group offered no financial or reproductive benefit to the men who controlled society. In 1487, German clergyman Heinrich Kramer produced the best-known treatise on witchcraft, Malleus Maleficarum, which spurred the prosecution of witches and the persecution of women at large.

To protect themselves from witches, Europeans created “witch bottles” full of human hair, urine, and nail clippings, then placed them around their homes. Such objects went on view at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford last year in its “Spellbound” exhibition, turning these fetish objects into aesthetic relics in their own right.

Throughout the 17th century, witch depictions ranged from classical allusions to satanic scenes. Italian artist Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione etched the sorceress Circe turning Odysseus’s companions into beasts. Belgian artist Frans Francken the Younger imagined a witches’ sabbath with a group of women huddled around a book. While the tome is ostensibly full of spells, the message is clear: Beware a group of literate, independent women.

The Influence of Witchcraft in Classical Artwork

The history of witchcraft in Europe dates back to ancient times and has been documented over centuries. It was believed that witches had supernatural powers and could cast spells or curses on people. During the Middle Ages, a period of intense superstition and fear, witch-hunting became rampant throughout Europe as authorities sought to stamp out perceived threats from witches. Trials and executions were held, often with little evidence beyond hearsay or accusations from neighbors or family members. In many parts of Europe, the practice of witchcraft declined in the late 16th century due to religious reformations and advances in scientific knowledge. Although witchcraft has been feared and vilified throughout history, it has also been the subject of fascination and mystique. This is reflected in the artwork of the time, with many painters depicting witches in their work. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most famous paintings that feature witches, and explore the different ways they have been portrayed over the years. From Frans Francken II’s 'The Witches Sabbath' painted in 1607 to John William Waterhouse’s 'The Magic Circle'painted in 1806. Witches' Flight | Francisco de Goya | 1797
Francisco de Goya was one of the most renowned painters to depict witches and witchcraft through his artworks. In 1797 he created The Witches Flight, an oil painting featuring a nightmarish scene of a flock of witches soaring across a black sky. Although not much is known about it, scholars have suggested that it might be related to a Spanish Inquisition topic. These eerie characters dominate the black dark clouds, having an eerie and mysterious presence throughout the composition. The work expresses an intriguing sense of fear, pointing to violence and butchery during the period. Goya's skilful technique contributes to its captivating atmosphere, where viewers can almost feel the movement and energy of these flying figures in motion. It stands as one of his most important works, becoming a symbol of troubled times full of superstitions and unjust practices haunting humanity even today.
The Witches' Sabbath | Salvator Rosa | 1649 The Witche's Sabbath by Salvator Rosa is an eerie and captivating painting of a mysterious gathering deep in the woods. It depicts a group of witches gathered around a fire, with one evil bird like creature raising its wings as it summons evil spirits from beyond. The painting has been interpreted in various ways, but most likely portrays an infamous witch’s sabbath which took place during the height of the European Witch Trials of the 17th century. The dark figures represent witches and other practitioners of magic who were persecuted during this time for their beliefs and practices. Magic Circle | John William Waterhouse | 1886 The witch depicted in John William Waterhouse's painting 'The Magic Circle' is a mysterious figure. She is presented as powerful and wise, with her head slightly tilted upwards as she tends to a large pot of unknown contents. Her face and eyes are hidden by her deep dark hair. She wears an ornate robe of midnight blue velvet, gathered tightly around her slight frame to emphasize her status as a supernatural being. In one hand she holds a black wand that glitters with magic energy. Around her stands a boundary of stones inscribed with runes that form an enchanted circle to protect her from any malevolent forces. Witches Sabbath | Frans Francken the Younger | 1649 The Witches Sabbath, a painting by Frans Francken the Younger, is an intricately intense artwork depicting a group of individuals gathered in an open clearing beneath a moonlit sky. Barely visible in the gloominess of the night, women and men alike are unified by their joint allegiance to Lucifer, small devils and demons can be seen in the background. Despite their terrifying stature and piercing gazes, those gathered around do not seem to be alarmed but instead wear expressions of wonder in anticipation of what may follow. Such attention to detail and vibrant colours used in The Witches Sabbath give it a surprisingly interesting yet peculiar atmosphere that gives spectators pause with its riddling subject matter; this work captures its audience's attention with brilliant artistry and allows one to come away from viewing with some insight into the chaotic complexity of humanity. Witches Sabbath | Francisco de Goya | 18th Century The painting Witches Sabbath by Francisco de Goya is an unsettling representation of a supernatural gathering. The focus of the painting is a large goat whose ghastly eyes seem to pierce into the viewer's soul. He stands atop a rocky hill in front of an array of witches, some adorned in dark cloaks and hats, who are ready for their sabbath ritual to begin. In the background, a crescent moon illuminates a night sky filled with stormy clouds and stars. Each witch holds something that further represents her presence: some hold staffs and candles while others have strange undead creatures clenched within their hands, as if they are offering it to the goat. All of them appear to be preparing for something sinister, as if they were conjuring a ritual. In conclusion, witchcraft has played a large role in the art world throughout history. It has been included in various classic works of art, from the Middle Ages through to more modern paintings. Many artists have explored the mystical powers of witches and their influence on humanity, often depicting them as mysterious figures with supernatural abilities. While some have framed them as dangerous creatures who practice black magic and malicious curses, others have focused on their healing practices and protective nature towards mankind. Even today, witchcraft continues to provide an interesting subject matter for many traditional and contemporary artists alike. From its earliest depictions to modern interpretations of this ancient craft, it is clear that witches and their powerful magic will remain an important figure within the creative arts for centuries to come.

Why Did Francisco Goya Paint Witches?

Francisco Goya’s grim and unnerving images of witches’ sabbaths and flying sorceresses hide an intriguing story behind them.

Francisco Goya started his career as a joyful rococo painter, but over the years the famous artist turned into a master of scary scenes. Among the variety of menacing figures in his works, witches appear to have a special place. But what was the reason for such a strange interest? Read on to learn more about why Francisco Goya decided to paint these scary creatures in his works.

Goya's work reflects a critical perspective on superstition and the supernatural, reflecting the changing beliefs and attitudes of the time. Another well-known witchcraft painting is Hans Baldung's "The Witches," created in the early 16th century. This masterpiece portrays three grotesque witches engaged in various magical activities, including the creation of potions and the summoning of demonic creatures. Baldung's work reflects the growing fear and fascination with witchcraft during the early modern period. Witchcraft painting is not limited to historical traditions. Contemporary artists have continued to explore and reinterpret this theme in their work. They often incorporate modern symbols, themes, and imagery to reflect the changing dynamics and perceptions of witchcraft in society. In conclusion, witchcraft painting is a genre that captures the imagination and fascination with occult practices. It has evolved throughout history, reflecting cultural and societal attitudes towards witchcraft. These paintings continue to intrigue audiences, offering a glimpse into the mystical and supernatural world of witches and sorcery..

Reviews for "Witchcraft as Inspiration: Exploring the Artistic Process"

1. Mark - 2 stars - I was really disappointed by the "Witchcraft painting". The artwork lacked creativity and seemed very amateurish. The colors were dull and there was no interesting use of light and shadow. Overall, the painting felt uninspired and unimpressive. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating piece of art.

2. Sarah - 1 star - The "Witchcraft painting" was a complete waste of money. The composition was messy and chaotic, making it difficult to appreciate any intended meaning or message. The artist's technique appeared sloppy, with brushstrokes that didn't seem intentional or skillful. I found no beauty or depth in this painting, and I regret purchasing it.

3. John - 2 stars - I found the "Witchcraft painting" to be rather odd and off-putting. The subject matter was not to my taste, and I found the portrayal of witches to be cliché and uninspiring. Additionally, the color choice was jarring, especially the excessive use of neon hues. I feel like the painting lacked a cohesive concept or narrative, leaving me confused and unsatisfied as a viewer.

4. Emily - 3 stars - The "Witchcraft painting" had some interesting elements, but overall, it didn't resonate with me. While I appreciated the artist's attempt to explore witchcraft as a subject, I found the execution to be lacking. The brushwork felt rushed and unfinished, and the overall composition felt unbalanced. It felt like the artist had a lot of potential, but this particular painting didn't showcase their best skills.

The Spellbinding Charm of Witchcraft in Painting