Artwork
H Beard Print Collection
H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist Anthony Cardon. It dates from 1807 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This hand-colored print, circa 1807, portrays Angelica Catalani, a renowned European opera singer.
About this work
This is a hand-colored print from around 1807. It shows Angelica Catalani, an opera singer who was famous across Europe. The artist used fine lines and soft shading to make her face stand out.
Catalani was so popular that Napoleon himself invited her to Paris. This print was made just after she sang for him in 1807.
Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum for more prints like this.
Overview
This hand-colored print, circa 1807, portrays Angelica Catalani, a renowned European opera singer. Executed with fine lines and soft shading, it highlights her facial features.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Angelica Catalani, was a celebrated opera singer whose fame reached the highest echelons, including an invitation from Napoleon to perform in Paris, an event closely preceding the print's creation.
Technique & Style
The print showcases meticulous craftsmanship through its use of fine lines for detail and soft shading techniques to achieve a subtle, expressive rendering of Catalani's face.
History & Provenance
Created shortly after Catalani's 1807 performance for Napoleon, the print is part of the Harry Beard Collection. For similar works, the Victoria and Albert Museum's holdings are notable.
Artist & collection
Artist
Anthony Cardon (1772–1813) was a Flemish engraver in chalk or stipple, who made his career in England and became noted for his engravings and book illustrations.
