Artwork
Samuel Palmer
Samuel Palmer is a print by Leonard Baskin. It dates from 1956 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
The print is a signed single sheet from Baskin’s book “Blake and the Young Ancients,” honoring followers of William Blake.
This print brings back a portrait of Samuel Palmer. Leonard Baskin made it in 1956 using wood engraving, a fine-art twist on woodcut.
Baskin started from an old pencil-and-watercolor sketch of Palmer, then turned it into a bold woodcut. The print is a signed single sheet from Baskin’s book “Blake and the Young Ancients,” honoring followers of William Blake.
Check out more prints by Baskin at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Overview
This print is a wood engraving by Leonard Baskin, created in 1956. It is a portrait of Samuel Palmer, an artist associated with William Blake.
Subject & Meaning
The print is based on a portrait of Samuel Palmer made by Henry Walter in pencil and watercolour. It is part of Baskin's book 'Blake and the Young Ancients', which celebrates the followers of William Blake.
Technique & Style
Baskin used wood engraving to reinterpret Walter's original portrait, transforming it into a bold image. This technique allowed him to create a distinct visual representation of Palmer.
History & Provenance
The original portrait by Henry Walter is now held in the British Museum. Baskin's print is a signed single-sheet impression from his book.
Artist & collection
Artist
Leonard Baskin (August 15, 1922 – June 3, 2000) was an American sculptor, draughtsman, and graphic artist, as well as founder of the Gehenna Press (1942–2000).
