Joseph Ritson, Select Collection of English Songs (1783)
Title
Joseph Ritson, Select Collection of English Songs (1783)
Original Date:
1783
Publisher:
Joseph Johnson
Physical Description:
3 volumes ; 19 cm.
Background Information:
Ritson’s Select Collection of English Songs is divided into three volumes including an introduction, thematic sections, and “airs” or music for the songs. Blake’s engravings for this work were done on commission after designs by Thomas Stothard. The book was published by Joseph Johnson, who was part of a radical circle to which Blake also belonged. Johnson is believed to have published Blake’s first book of poetry, and it was probably he who was responsible for the commission, as he was for many of Blake’s other commissioned work. This book was donated to the library in 1951 by Water C. Baker, Union College Class of 1915. Not available at the William Blake Archive. Consult the book in Schaffer Library for more information.
Student Commentary:
Overview: Joseph Ritson (1752-1803) was a writer, critic, publisher, and antiquarian. He was particularly fond of old ballads and songs, and he and two other writers are credited with bringing together for the first time all of the then-known texts and ballads about Robin Hood. Ritson’s Select Collection of English Songs brings together songs about love and a variety of other subjects. After Blake finished his apprenticeship with an engraver, he was commissioned to create nine engravings for this book. They illustrate his skill and versatility as an engraver. – Caitlin Williams ‘18