The artwork is an etching with ink and watercolor on paper by William Blake, created in 1795. It belongs to the Symbolism art movement and is part of the “Illustrations to Dante – The Divine Comedy” series. The artwork is titled “Illustration to Dante’s Divine Comedy (Pity)” and measures 42.5 x 53.9 cm. It is categorized under the genre of illustration.
In examining the artwork, one can observe an ethereal and dreamlike composition. It depicts a celestial scene where an angelic figure, seemingly gliding through the air, tenderly holds a small child. Below this divine figure, a reclining woman appears to be enveloped in calm repose. The angelic figure, with flowing hair and apparel, guides the viewer’s eyes with a sense of motion and grace. The use of soft colors and delicate lines brings an emotional depth to the scene, enhancing the thematic essence of pity and compassion derived from Dante’s narrative. The supernatural elements, along with symbolic imagery, capture the mystical and allegorical essence of Dante’s Divine Comedy as interpreted by Blake.