Artwork
A Family Addressed by Angels
A Family Addressed by Angels is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist John Flaxman. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
This artwork is called A Family Addressed by Angels.
It was created by John Flaxman between 1820-1826, which is a bit later than the late 18th century, but still early 19th century. The fact that it's on the back of a letter is interesting, showing the artist used whatever was available.
You can learn more about this style by looking into the movement: Romanticism.
Overview
John Flaxman’s drawing *A Family Addressed by Angels* is executed in graphite on laid paper, the medium applied to the reverse side of a letter. The work dates from the early nineteenth century, around 1820–1826, and presents a domestic interior in which celestial figures appear to address the occupants.
Subject & Meaning
The composition shows a family gathered within a modest interior, their attention drawn upward to a group of angels. The presence of the celestial visitors suggests a moment of spiritual communication or divine blessing, linking everyday life with a higher, unseen realm.
Technique & Style
Flaxman employs his characteristic precise linear drawing, using fine graphite strokes to delineate figures and architectural details. The clarity of contour and restrained shading reflect his background in neoclassical illustration, while the subject’s emotive tone hints at emerging Romantic sensibilities.
History & Provenance
Created during a period when Flaxman was active as a book illustrator and designer for Josiah Wedgwood, the piece was likely produced informally, utilizing the blank side of correspondence. Its survival on such a utilitarian substrate provides insight into the artist’s working habits and the circulation of his drawings among patrons.
Context
Although Flaxman is chiefly associated with neoclassical sculpture and illustration, this drawing aligns with early Romantic interests in the supernatural and the interior lives of ordinary people. The work bridges his classical training with a growing fascination for personal, emotional narratives.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Flaxman (6 July 1755 – 7 December 1826) was an English sculptor and draughtsman who was a leading figure in British and European Neoclassicism.
Beggars at a Door (Study for the Yarborough Monument)
Four Studies of a Seated Woman with Children at Her Feet (Sketches for the Monument to Lady FitzHarris?)
Bearded Figure
Three Groups of Figures (Parents and Children?)
Sheet of Studies
Two Figures Embracing
Studies for a Panel![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 Monument with Angels Reaching Down to a Praying Figure [recto and verso]
Mother and Child (recto)
Two Chinese figures with barber's equipment
Group of Figures Surrounding Seated Figure