Angel of the Divine Presence Bringing Eve to Adam (The Creation of Eve: "And She Shall be Called Woman) (recto); Sketch for the same (verso)

The powerful drawing, Angel of the Divine Presence Bringing Eve to Adam (The Creation of Eve: "And She Shall be Called Woman) (recto); Sketch for the same (verso), was executed by William Blake between 1798 and 1808. This watercolor, pen and black ink, over graphite work, exemplifies Blake's unique approach to Biblical iconography, reflecting his lifelong study of the visionary and prophetic traditions. The recto depicts the pivotal moment from Genesis when Eve, created from Adam's rib, is presented to her partner by a central Angel of the Divine Presence.

The composition focuses on the three principal figures, portraying the initial Female Nudes and Adam in a state of pre-lapsarian grace. Blake renders the figures with the muscular, linear intensity characteristic of his neoclassical and Romantic style. The scene, symbolic of the beginnings of humanity, is enriched by details such as the lush Grapes visible near Adam, suggesting the profound fertility and bounty of the newly created Paradise before the Fall. The complexity of the composition is further revealed by the verso, which features a preparatory sketch for the same theme, providing scholars vital insight into Blake's working methods and revisions.

This significant piece of British Romantic draftsmanship is part of the distinguished collection of drawings and watercolors at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The double-sided nature of the paper, detailing both the finished concept and the preliminary work, underscores the drawing’s importance. While the original artwork resides safely in the Met, the cultural significance of Blake's mythological interpretations ensures that high-quality prints and reproductions of this public domain creation are frequently made available for study by art enthusiasts worldwide.