Rare William Blake Print Poised to Fetch £120,000 at Auction

In a remarkable literary event, a rare print of William Blake's celebrated poem "The Tyger" is poised to go under the hammer at an upcoming auction. The print, which is expected to fetch up to £120,000, comes from the first issue of Blake's "Songs of Experience" collection, a remarkable set of just four copies containing 17 of the poet's works.

The etchings, which were both written and illustrated by Blake, offer a unique glimpse into the artist's creative process. As Christie's head of prints for Europe, Murray Macaulay, explains, the interplay between Blake's designs and delicate script "adds a new dimension to his verse, and a touch of humour." The print of "The Tyger" being auctioned was once owned by renowned author Kenneth Grahame, best known for his classic novel "The Wind in the Willows."

In addition to the iconic "Tyger" print, the upcoming sale will also feature seven other works from the "Songs of Experience" collection, including poems such as "My Pretty Rose Tree," "Ah! Sunflower," and "The Lilly." These rare prints, valued between £20,000 and £70,000, exemplify Blake's singular genius as both a poet and an artist.