Artwork

Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy"

Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy", by William Blake, ink, 1793
Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy", by William Blake, ink, 1793

Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy" is an ink print by the Romanticist artist William Blake. It dates from 1793 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This work is a restrike from a fragment of a cancelled etching plate, A Prophecy, created by William Blake in 1793 using an innovative relief etching technique.

Subject & Meaning

The piece is part of Blake's 'prophetic works', characterized by imaginative and symbolic content, reflecting his emphasis on visionary themes despite limited recognition during his lifetime.

Technique & Style

Blake employed a unique method: inking a stiff card with graduated colors, then transferring it to the print. The result is a distinctive, textured appearance with bright, unevenly blended colors (greens, purples, yellows) and bold, sometimes obscured text.

History & Provenance

Originally part of a cancelled plate from A Prophecy, this restrike (1793) is a product of Blake's London-based practice, with the exception of a three-year period in Felpham.

Context

Created during the Romantic era, it aligns with Blake's broader artistic and poetic output as an English Romantic artist, later acknowledged for his contributions to both visual art and poetry.

Legacy

Despite initial lack of recognition, the work contributes to Blake's posthumous status as a significant figure in Romantic-era art and literature, valued for the imaginative depth of his prophetic works.

Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy"
Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy", William Blake

Artist & collection

Portrait of William Blake

Artist

William Blake

William Blake (28 November 1757 – 12 August 1827) was an English poet, painter and printmaker.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy"?

Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy" was painted by William Blake in 1793.

Where can I see Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy"?

Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy" is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy"?

Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy" is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy"?

Museum-quality prints of Restrike from fragment of cancelled plate for "A Prophecy" are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.