The artwork titled “When the Morning Stars Sang Together” was created by William Blake in 1820. This watercolor on paper measures 179 by 280 cm and is part of the Symbolism art movement. It belongs to the genre of illustration and is part of the series “Illustrations to the Book of Job.” This distinguished piece is housed in the Morgan Library and Museum (Pierpont Morgan Library) in New York City, NY, USA.
The artwork depicts a scene of profound spiritual significance. At the top, four ethereal angels stand with arms raised in a gesture of exaltation against a backdrop of stars, symbolizing the heavenly chorus. Below them, a central figure of a bearded God-like entity extends his arms, signaling divine oversight and blessing. The middle tier features a dramatic contrast: while celestial figures illustrate light and purity, darker mythological creatures like leviathans and serpents represent chaos. At the bottom, human figures, most likely Job and his companions, are shown in various postures of prayer and contemplation, underscoring the human condition of piety and suffering. Blake’s masterful use of watercolor enhances the visual narrative, imbuing the scene with a sense of both celestial splendor and somber reflection, characteristic of the Symbolism movement.
