Artwork
H Beard Print Collection
H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist Brown, M.. It dates from 12 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
This print shows a portrait of John Bannister, a comedian from the late 1700s. The artist, M. Brown, made it in 1787. It’s part of the Romanticism movement, which often focused on emotion and individuality.
Prints like this were a way to share images widely before photography. This one lets us peek at how people dressed and performed back then.
Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum next.
Overview
This 1787 print, titled 'Portrait of John Bannister', is a visual representation of the late 18th-century comedian John Bannister, created by artist M. Brown.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, John Bannister, was a renowned comedian of his time. The portrait captures his individuality, aligning with the Romanticism movement's emphasis on emotion and personal character.
Technique & Style
Executed in the style of Romanticism, the print conveys a sense of personality and expression, characteristic of the movement's focus on the individual.
History & Provenance
Created in 1787 by M. Brown, this print is part of the H Beard Print Collection. Its creation predates photography, illustrating how prints facilitated widespread image dissemination during this era.
Context
The print offers a glimpse into late 18th-century attire and theatrical performance practices, providing historical insight into the period's culture.
Legacy
As part of a broader collection, this print contributes to the historical record of theatrical personalities and the evolution of printmaking as a medium for popular culture.
Artist & collection
Artist
Printmaker active in late-18th-century London, M. Brown made satirical engravings kept by the H. Beard Collection. Their plates lampooned politics and daily life, including the 4 June 1786 print and the 12 October 1787…
