Songs of Innocence: Night (second plate) 1789 - 1825

This print, "Night," comes from William Blake's "Songs of Innocence," made around 1789 using illuminated etching, a technique Blake pioneered. He would write and draw on a copper plate with an acid-resistant substance, then etch away the unprotected areas, leaving a raised design that could be printed. Blake then hand-colored each print with watercolors, making every impression unique. Look closely at the texture of the paper, the delicate lines of the figures, and the vibrant hues. The materiality of this print is essential. Blake combined the roles of artist, poet, and printer, taking full control over the production of his work. This DIY approach was a deliberate move away from the established printmaking industry, which relied on division of labor and mass production. In this context, Blake’s method represents a rejection of industrial capitalism and a commitment to individual creative expression.