The Meeting of a Family in Heaven, from "The Grave," a Poem by Robert Blair
Original title: The Meeting of a Family in Heaven, from "The Grave," a Poem by Robert Blair
kurzbeschreibung
William Blake made this engraving in 1813 as a contribution to Robert Blair's poem 'The Grave' (1743). The image presents a gathering of the deceased in heaven. As a line engraving, the print remains entirely in black and white.
Description
The layout is symmetrical: at the center, two adults in classical robes embrace, surrounded by children who also hold one another. Above them, two angels with wide-spread wings hover and look down at the group. Clouds and a bright sky fill the background. The figures are classicizing, with emphasis on movement and emotion. Light falls evenly, without strong contrasts.
Context
Blake created the engraving for Robert Blair's poem 'The Grave', first published in 1743. The work dates from 1813, when Blake received more frequent commissions for book illustrations. The poem deals with death and survival after death; Blake's portrayal of a heavenly reunion takes up this theme. Blake was known for his idiosyncratic religiosity, which becomes visible in such prints.
Impact
A calm, solemn mood emanates from the print, supported by the symmetrical arrangement and gentle embraces. The hovering angels and bright clouds create a transcendent atmosphere that conveys hope and consolation. Because the image is restricted to black and white, the line work and expressive gestures of the figures come to the fore.
Technique
Engraving is a process in which the design is incised into a copper plate and then printed on paper. Blake used fine lines to bring out details in garments and faces. The even lighting is characteristic of this type of line engraving, which does without tonal values.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)