Artwork
The Descent of the Angels to One of the Daughters of Men

The Descent of the Angels to One of the Daughters of Men is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist William Blake. It dates from 1826 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Created around 1826, *The Descent of the Angels to One of the Daughters of Men* is a graphite drawing on laid paper by William Blake, embodying his characteristic use of visionary and symbolic themes.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing illustrates a moment of spiritual intervention, drawing on biblical and mythological sources, consistent with Blake's exploration of mystical subjects throughout his work.
Technique & Style
Executed in graphite on laid paper, the piece demonstrates Blake's meticulous technique, emphasizing precise line work and thoughtful composition.
History & Provenance
While the drawing's early ownership history is not detailed here, it is known to be part of Blake's later work, created during a period when his innovative style was not yet widely recognized.
Context
Produced in London, the drawing reflects Blake's position within the broader Romantic movement, though his unique visionary style set him apart from contemporaries.
Legacy
Though underappreciated in his lifetime, works like *The Descent of the Angels* have contributed to Blake's posthumous recognition as a pivotal figure in Romantic-era art and literature.
Artist & collection
Artist
William Blake (28 November 1757 – 12 August 1827) was an English poet, painter and printmaker.









![Time's Triple Bow [recto], by William Blake](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/william-blake--time-s-triple-bow-recto--dc15bf51bd241980-w320.webp)

![Los Supporting the Sun [recto], by William Blake](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/william-blake--los-supporting-the-sun-recto--1ec2341f6af36294-w320.webp)
![Studies for a Monument with Angels Reaching Down to a Praying Figure [recto and verso], by John Flaxman](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/john-flaxman--studies-for-a-monument-with-angels-reaching-down-to-a-prayin--9d789ab993a76a50-w320.webp)



![Studies for a Lunette [verso], by Charles Sprague Pearce](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/charles-sprague-pearce--studies-for-a-lunette-verso--5d54507e74f08054-w320.webp)