The artwork “Illustration to Milton’s On the Morning of Christ’s Nativity” was created by William Blake in 1809. This watercolor illustration belongs to the Symbolism art movement and is part of a series titled “Illustrations to John Milton – On the Morning of Christ’s Nativity.” The artwork serves as an illustration to John Milton’s poetic work, highlighting Blake’s unique interpretative vision.
In the artwork, a serene and divine scene is portrayed within a humble nativity setting. Central to the composition is the Virgin Mary, tenderly holding the newborn Christ, while Joseph stands beside her, gazing downward in reverence. Above them, an angelic figure hovers, exuding a sense of celestial grace as it bridges the earthly and heavenly realms. Two oxen are depicted behind the Holy Family, adding to the bucolic ambiance of the nativity scene. Below them, a figure lies prone on the ground, possibly in adoration or in a dream-like state, blending seamlessly into the ethereal atmosphere that pervades the illustration. Blake’s use of delicate watercolor washes and fine detailing harmoniously blend to evoke a sense of sacred stillness and heavenly peace.
