What links a painter and a poet? The John Linnell and William Blake Plaque. This plaque commemorates the connection between John Linnell and William Blake. It marks a place where their lives intersected.
The John Linnell and William Blake Plaque was erected by the Greater London Council in 1975. It is located at Old Wyldes’ North End in Hampstead. This plaque is made of fibre-glass. It is an unusual oval shape.
John Linnell was a painter born in 1792 and died in 1882. William Blake was a poet and artist born in 1757 and died in 1827. The John Linnell and William Blake Plaque recognizes their achievements in fine arts and literature.
The John Linnell and William Blake Plaque inscription reads “John Linnell 1792-1882 Painter lived here William Blake 1757-1827 Poet and Artist stayed here as his guest”. This inscription tells us about their relationship and the house’s history.
John Linnell studied at the Royal Academy Schools in London. He became a successful painter of portraits and landscapes. His view of Primrose Hill in London is an example of his early work. Linnell was also a patron and advisor to other artists.
Linnell met William Blake in 1818. They remained friends until Blake’s death in 1827. Linnell became an important patron to Blake. He commissioned engravings illustrating the Book of Job. Linnell also bought Blake’s watercolours for Milton’s Paradise Regained. Both sets of illustrations are now in the Fitzwilliam Museum.
Linnell painted a miniature portrait of Blake. It was a watercolour on ivory. Linnell introduced Blake to a new generation of English artists. Samuel Palmer was among them. Palmer later became Linnell’s son-in-law. Palmer admired William Blake.
The young artists called themselves “The Ancients”. They met at Blake’s house. They also admired Renaissance masters. These included Albrecht Dürer and Michelangelo.
Linnell was an important influence on Palmer early in his career. Palmer said Linnell plucked him from the pit of modern art. Despite a later falling out Linnell’s influence remained significant.
William Blake also has another blue plaque. The London County Council erected it in 1907. It was at No.28 Broad Street Golden Square. Later, it was 74 Broadwick Street. The house was demolished around 1965. William Blake House a block of flats was erected in its place.
The John Linnell and William Blake Plaque stands as a testament to their intertwined lives. It represents the power of friendship and artistic collaboration. This plaque reminds us of their contributions to art and literature. It symbolizes the enduring legacy of two remarkable men. It marks the place where Linnell and Blake’s spirits linger.