The Ghost of a Flea

A chilling apparition from the darkest corners of visionary art, William Blake’s The Ghost of a Flea (c. 1819-1820) manifests as a muscular, horned entity, holding a gleaming bowl of blood under a starry, draped firmament. Born from a séance-inspired vision by John Varley, Blake renders the ephemeral spirit of a flea as a powerfully grotesque, almost vampiric figure, embodying the unseen horrors and spectral energies that populate his unique spiritual cosmology.

This iconic tempera painting explores the boundary between the mundane and the monstrous, the insect and the infernal.

Restored by the Surrealium atelier, this archival reproduction resurrects the original's ominous palette and intricate textures with profound clarity. Every sinew, scale, and star is brought to life, deepened by the giclée process using 11 archival inks on thick, museum-grade 308 GSM Hahnemühle cotton paper. The result is a Surrealium archival art print that transforms Blake’s potent vision into a tactile, luxurious experience, preserving its mystique for generations.

More than a mere depiction of a phantom, The Ghost of a Flea challenges our perceptions of reality, inviting us to contemplate the hidden life and profound strangeness that exists within the mundane, revealed through the unparalleled genius of William Blake.

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Every Surrealium print is created with archival pigment inks on museum-grade cotton fine art paper, chosen for its velvety surface, exceptional colour depth, and its ability to endure for generations without fading. This is the same calibre of material used by leading museums and galleries — a difference that is both seen and felt the moment the artwork is in your hands.

Each piece is made to order, then shipped unframed in a rigid, hard-shell protective box using fully sustainable materials. We strongly recommend framing upon arrival: it protects the deckled or cut edges, enhances longevity, and allows the artwork to take its intended form — as a lasting object of beauty rather than a mass-produced poster.

This level of craftsmanship is why our prints sit at a higher price point: they are created as collectible, archival artworks, not disposable wall décor.

Frames not included in the print price — but the framing service is entirely complimentary. Simply contact us after placing your order to begin the process.

At Surrealium, we believe the right frame transforms an artwork into a true centerpiece. That’s why we offer a complimentary custom framing service, designed to help you select the perfect frame for your space.

Every Surrealium frame is handmade in Sweden by artisans who specialize in rare, antique-inspired mouldings—pieces that are increasingly difficult to find in today’s mass-produced market. Frames are crafted to size, finished by hand, and shipped separately from the print. Assembly at home is simple and secure.

Once your order is placed, our atelier will reach out to begin your personalized framing consultation. You’ll send us a photo of your space, and we will prepare real-life previews of the artwork in multiple frame options—using advanced visual tools to help you envision exactly how it will appear on your wall.

Pricing for frames
Because each frame is custom-produced, pricing varies depending on size and style. Handmade frames typically range between $140–$400, depending on size and material. You’ll receive an exact quote during your consultation before any frame is produced.

Our goal is to help you create a piece that feels complete—an artwork elevated, protected, and perfectly attuned to your world.