When the Morning Stars Sang Together Possibly 1825 - 1874

Editor: This is William Blake's engraving, "When the Morning Stars Sang Together," created around 1826. It’s intricate, almost overwhelming. What strikes me most is the contrast between the powerful figures and the delicate linework. How do you approach a piece so densely packed with visual information? Curator: I am drawn to the formal structure. Consider the vertical layering: celestial beings at the top, descending to earthly figures below. The composition is balanced by the framing text, which operates as both visual border and textual narrative. Note Blake's use of contrasting textures achieved through varied line density. Editor: So you’re focusing on the visual architecture and how the elements interact within the frame itself? Curator: Precisely. The formal qualities – the line, the shape, the composition – are the primary carriers of meaning, regardless of historical context. What do you make of the echoing shapes and gestures? Editor: It shows me new ways of approaching the piece. Thanks!