May-Day in London

1784

William Blake after Samuel Collings

Associated Names
William Blake

Artist, British, 1757 - 1827

Samuel Collings

Artist After, British, active 1784/1789

This is a drawing of a scene on May Day in London. The image shows a busy street filled with activities. Full-description: The drawing depicts characters engaging in a festive atmosphere, including musicians and dancers. In the center, people in period costumes are dancing, some holding hands and others clapping. The background shows urban buildings with banners and signs announcing events like concerts. A man is seen carrying a pole decorated with cups and teapots, possibly for street performance or sales. Dogs are also present. The characters' expressions and body language suggest joy and excitement. Onlookers lean out from upper floor windows to watch the festivities.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 20.3 × 24.8 cm (8 × 9 3/4 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1943.3.1824

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Keynes 1921, no. 98, State (v)

  • Series Title

    Wit's Magazine

Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1921

  • Keynes, Geoffrey. A bibliography of William Blake. New York: Grolier Club, 1921.

Wikidata ID

Q64962802

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