William Cowper

The engraving William Cowper was created by the renowned British artist William Blake in 1802. Classified as a Print, this work exemplifies Blake’s mastery of the engraving technique, where precise lines and meticulous cross-hatching define the figure and atmosphere. The piece serves as a portrait of William Cowper (1731-1800), a highly influential English poet associated with the transition from the Augustan age to Romanticism, and a figure whose profound spiritual struggles resonated deeply with Blake’s own mystical sensibilities.

Produced in the United Kingdom shortly after the poet’s death, the work reflects Blake’s deep engagement with the literary and cultural circles of his time. Although often celebrated for his complex illuminated books, Blake frequently undertook independent commissions such as this portrait. The formal rigor of the engraving process highlights the emotional intensity Blake brought even to commercial prints, defining the subject's somber expression and contemplative mood.

The clarity and detail achieved in William Cowper are characteristic of the high standards for fine prints during the early 19th century. This impression is a significant example of Blake’s portraiture and graphic work, residing in the permanent collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Because of its age and historical importance, such period prints frequently enter the public domain, ensuring global access to the output of this foundational British artist.