The artwork is entitled “The Shrine of Apollo: Milton’s Hymn on the Morning of Christ’s Nativity” and was created by William Blake in 1815. This watercolor on paper is an illustration that falls within the Symbolism art movement. The piece is currently housed in the Whitworth Art Gallery at the University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
The artwork depicts a dynamic composition centered around a statue of Apollo, god of music, poetry, and prophecy, standing atop a pedestal. Apollo is portrayed holding his symbolic lyre and bow, with his gaze directed pensively forward. Surrounding the central figure, mythical beings and worshippers are seen in various poses. To the left, a powerful, ethereal figure appears diving gracefully towards the ground with outstretched arms, enveloped in an aura of energy and light. To the right, a seated woman holds her head in a gesture of lament or reverence, partially shrouded in darkness. Beneath the statue, two figures bow deeply in veneration, their forms emphasized by Blake’s characteristic expressive line work and rich color palette. The background features a mélange of mysterious, organic shapes that frame the scene, lending it a dreamlike and fantastical atmosphere. The overall composition harmoniously intertwines themes of spirituality and mythology, capturing the symbolic essence of the hymn celebrated in Milton’s poetic verse.