Unveiling the Hidden Doodles of William Blake

Researchers have uncovered previously unseen doodles by the English poet and painter William Blake. These etchings, found on copper plates using advanced technology, offer new insights into Blake's early artistic experiments during his apprenticeship with engraver James Basire. The discovery reveals hidden aspects of Blake's formative years.

In a remarkable discovery, researchers have uncovered previously unseen doodles engraved on copper plates by iconic English poet and painter William Blake. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, the etchings, which date back around 250 years, were unearthed by experts who identified them as Blake's early experiments.

Blake, celebrated for his poetic contributions such as the unofficial anthem 'Jerusalem' and the famous 'The Tyger', worked under engraver James Basire during his youth. The findings, featuring motifs like arrows and miniature faces, were located on copper plates from Oxford's Bodleian Libraries, where the artifacts were bequeathed in 1809.

Blake expert Mark Crosby highlighted the significance of these discoveries, offering new insights into the artist's formative years. The engravings, often invisible to the naked eye, suggest a young Blake practicing his art while apprenticing at Basire's studio, providing a rare glimpse into the creative mind of the influential artist.

(With inputs from agencies.)