Sabrina's zilveren rivier

Sabrina's zilveren rivier is a profound print created by the visionary British artist William Blake between 1820 and 1821. Executed on paper, this late work exemplifies Blake's dedication to literary subjects, specifically drawing upon John Milton’s masque, Comus (1634). The scene depicts the river nymph Sabrina, a benevolent, chaste figure called upon to rescue the imprisoned Lady from the sorcerer Comus, echoing the Romantic fascination with mythological and allegorical narratives.

Dating from the final years of Blake’s life, this piece reflects the highly spiritual and stylized manner characteristic of his mature output. Blake utilized his mastery of etching and engraving to capture the ethereal quality of the mythical scene, moving away from realistic representation towards intense visionary symbolism. The linear precision of the print contrasts with the fluid movement suggested by the nymph’s flowing gown and the titular silver river, which frames the central action. Many of Blake's late period prints were created as sets for specific literary commissions, demonstrating his deep, lifelong engagement with source texts like Milton.

This significant example of early 19th-century Romantic graphic art is carefully preserved in the collection of the Rijksmuseum, contributing to its extensive catalog of European prints and works on paper. As the artist died in 1827, works such as this have entered the public domain, allowing for broader academic appreciation and study of Blake’s unique contribution to British art history. The detailed execution of the work offers valuable insight into the interconnectedness of poetry and visual interpretation during the period.