Every Man Also Gave Him a Piece of Money 1825

Editor: Here we have William Blake's print, "Every Man Also Gave Him a Piece of Money," created around 1825 using ink engraving. It's quite a detailed narrative scene. I'm immediately struck by how Blake uses line to create such a dramatic contrast between the figures on the left and the central figures. What are your thoughts on the overall composition? Curator: The formal properties here are particularly compelling. Observe how Blake has employed a stark linear style to delineate the figures. It creates a dynamic tension. Consider how the composition is divided. There’s a clear foreground and background, separated almost as if on a stage. The starkness, coupled with the highly expressive figuration, evokes a specific mood. Have you considered the directionality of lines in relation to movement and narrative? Editor: Yes, the way the figures lean inwards draws my eye to the center where the seated figures are. It's interesting you say "stage." The way they're presented certainly gives that impression. Curator: Precisely. This theatrical quality forces us to acknowledge that within the two-dimensional surface there is this constructed depth, but its artificiality remains ever-present. What effects do you think that contrast in line is aiming for? The etching emphasizes forms in some areas, de-emphasizes them in others, why make that choice? Editor: It directs focus to the essential, to me, making the main subject clear without overly cluttering the image with extraneous detail. I had never considered the intention in variations of line that way, though. It's fascinating! Curator: Understanding the manipulation of form is vital to interpreting works such as these. Reflect upon what other details are hidden or revealed and that's how Blake is shaping the story through its materiality. Editor: I will be taking note of how line variance changes what an image conveys, now! Thanks so much.