Artwork
King Edward
King Edward is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist William Blake. It dates from 1819 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:by John Linnell, lower right: King Edward the first as he now exists / in the other world. according to his appearance / to Mr Blake. he here has his scull enlarged like a crown
About this work
Overview
This graphite drawing, titled 'King Edward,' is a work by William Blake, created around 1819. It exemplifies Blake's output during the Romantic period, characterized by imaginative and symbolic themes.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a bearded man's face in profile, identified as 'King Edward.' The subject's thoughtful expression is conveyed through simple, expressive lines and shading, suggesting a study or exploration rather than a formal portrait.
Technique & Style
Executed in graphite, the drawing features loose, sketchy strokes, particularly in the rendering of the subject's hair and beard. The unfinished quality of certain areas contributes to the overall sense of spontaneity and raw expressiveness.
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Artist & collection
Artist
William Blake (28 November 1757 – 12 August 1827) was an English poet, painter and printmaker.
