will not be unworthy of a scholar of Rembrandt[1] and Teniers, whom I have studied no less than Raphael and Michael Angelo. Please to send me your orders respecting this, and in my next effort I promise more expedition.—I am, revd. sir, your very humble servant,
6.
To the Rev. Dr. Trusler.
13 Hercules Buildings, Lambeth,
23rd August 1799.
Revd. Sir,—I really am sorry that you are fallen out with the spiritual world, especially if I should have to answer for it. I feel very sorry that your ideas and mine on moral painting differ so much as to have made you angry with my method of study. If I am wrong, I am wrong in good company. I had hoped your plan comprehended all species of this art, and especially that you would not regret that species which gives existence to every other, namely, visions of eternity. You say that I want somebody to elucidate my ideas. But you
- ↑ In the Descriptive Catalogue and elsewhere Blake roundly denounces the methods of Rembrandt; and, in the notes to Reynolds's Discourses, writes: "Rembrandt was a generaliser," and to generalise "is to be an idiot."
