Artwork

H Beard Print Collection

H Beard Print Collection, by James Bretherton, 30
H Beard Print Collection, by James Bretherton, 30

H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist James Bretherton. It dates from 30 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1786 print depicts a theatrical scene featuring Madame Mara and Rubinelli in character from the play 'The Charmers of the Age'.

About this work

This print shows a pair of singers on stage in 1786. James Bretherton made it as a portrait of Madame Mara and Rubinelli acting in a play. The print was published the same year.

The image mixes two print methods: aquatint and etching. It’s part of the Harry Beard Collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

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Overview

This 1786 print depicts a theatrical scene featuring Madame Mara and Rubinelli in character from the play 'The Charmers of the Age'. The work combines aquatint and etching techniques.

Subject & Meaning

The print captures a moment from 'The Charmers of the Age', portraying the singers Madame Mara and Rubinelli in their stage roles, highlighting the intersection of music and theatre in late 18th-century entertainment.

Technique & Style

The artwork employs a dual technique: aquatint for tonal depth and etching for line detail, reflecting the artistic innovations of its time.

History & Provenance

Published by James Bretherton on May 30, 1786, the print is now part of the Harry Beard Collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Artist & collection

Artist

James Bretherton

James Bretherton was an English cricketer active in the 1890s, playing in six first-class cricket matches. He was a right-handed batsman and right-arm fast-medium bowler.