David Hartley

David Hartley is an engraving created by William Blake in 1791. This piece exemplifies Blake’s prolific work as an illustrator and master engraver during the late 18th century. Produced as a print, the technical precision and detail evident in the lines allowed Blake to circulate images widely across the intellectual landscape of the United Kingdom. The classification of the work as a Print reflects Blake’s primary role as a commercial and artistic engraver, translating portraits and designs into reproducible forms.

The work is likely a portrait of the influential English philosopher David Hartley (1705–1757), known for his contributions to psychological associationism. Created several decades after Hartley’s death, the engraving likely served as a commemorative illustration for a published edition of his work or a biographical text, common practice in 18th-century British publishing. Blake’s engagement with historical and contemporary intellectual figures through prints underscores his position within the vibrant cultural production of the period.

Blake utilized the exacting process of engraving to achieve subtle tonal shifts and texture, defining the contours of the subject's face and attire. As a significant example of Blake’s non-prophetic output, this work demonstrates his mastery of conventional reproductive techniques before he fully embraced his distinctive relief etching methods. The engraving is preserved within the distinguished collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Because of its age and historical context, this important piece of British art is frequently available for study and reproduction, joining other historic prints that have entered the public domain.