Lamech and his Two Wives

William Blake is a well-known painter who was born on 28 November 1757 in Soho, London. Blake studied engraving in his early year of life and grew up loving Gothic art. Although his education was brief, his mother chiefly educated him at home.

Be that as it may, Blake found his inspiration in the bible and coloured his projects with intense spirituality. His most outstanding achievement was recognised in 1795 when he accomplished the large colour-printed drawings. Many of these prints have received detailed attention because their design expresses the same emotion, and the image formed a series. This article will discuss one of his paintings in the large colour-printed drawings ‘Lamech and his two wives’. Currently, this painting is in Tate Britain-London.

Lamech and his Two Wives

Blake completed Lamech and his two wives in 1995. This masterpiece was among Blake series of prints which are known as the prominent colour printed drawing. The series had twelve designs print, with each method having one to three copies. However, many critics view this masterpiece as less popular than the rest of the paintings in the series. But, when you study this masterpiece, you understand why Blake thought it was essential to include it in the series.

In addition, when working on this masterpiece Blake got his inspiration from the bible in book of genesis chapter 4, verses 23-4. In this painting, Lamech, a descendant of Cain, has just killed a man and who merely wound him. He stands in the centre of the picture with a gesture of horror, tearing his hair as he looks at the body of the dead man he killed. His wives are fearfully embracing each other as the body lies on the right. That is why the subject of this masterpiece was biblical.

The theme of this artwork

In his theme the colour-printed drawing uses a killer young man to represent Blake at the peak of his pictorial talent. Besides, Blake uses a biblical character to demonstrate a spiritual wave of emotions. That is why, Lamech and his two wives painting showcases Blakes experience and skills to reflect the theme of self-defeating vengeance. Furthermore, Blake borrowed the styles and motif from Michelangelo but also based his pictorial program on Sistine. In this masterpiece, Blake created a powerful depiction of huddled figures and developed personal symbolism. He further used colour to express emotional effects and linear style.

Conclusion

William Blake was a very religious artist who lived in the 19th century. In his 'Lamech and his two wives, he demonstrates biblical emotions and tries to reflect on the wonders of the natural world. Also, this masterpiece reflects the theme of self-defeating and vengeance. In addition, Blake pursued his path and is remains a vital persona in British art.