Canto IV, Verse 328

Canto IV, Verse 328 by William Blake and Mary Ann Flaxman is a significant example of British printmaking from the early nineteenth century, dated 1803. This work is classified as an engraving, reflecting the intensive collaborative effort between the renowned poet-artist Blake and Flaxman, a highly skilled designer and draftsman known for her interpretations of literary and classical themes.

Created during the period of 1801 to 1825, the piece captures the prevailing cultural fascination with epic poetry and dramatic, sublime narratives central to the Romantic movement. Flaxman, who often utilized a strong, neoclassical linearity in her sketches, likely provided the foundational visual concept, illustrating a scene from Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy. The specific reference, Canto IV, Verse 328, anchors the image to a precise moment within Dante’s journey through the afterlife, emphasizing the detail and precision required for such literary prints aimed at an educated audience.

The demanding technique of engraving required meticulous precision and detailed linear work, skills which Blake employed extensively throughout his career to create highly expressive prints. While Flaxman conceived the expressive visual concept, Blake’s recognized expertise ensured the successful translation of the complex composition onto the copper plate, giving the finished work its characteristic texture and depth.

As a collaborative effort that sheds light on the artistic production of the era, the work is highly valued for its historical and aesthetic merit. This example of British artistry resides in the esteemed collection of the National Gallery of Art. Like many historically important prints from this period, this image is frequently referenced in art historical study and often exists within the public domain, allowing enthusiasts and scholars worldwide to examine the technical mastery of both Flaxman and Blake.