Artwork
H Beard Print Collection
H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist Burney. It dates from 18 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. The work is a full‑length printed portrait depicting Mrs Cuyler in the role of Cressida from Shakespeare’s *Troilus and Cressida*.
About this work
This print shows a full-length portrait of Mrs. Cuyler as Cressida from *Troilus and Cressida*. Burney made it as a print in 1785, part of the Romanticism movement.
It’s a staged stage moment—Cressida caught in a quiet, dramatic pause. The print style keeps details clear but soft, like ink on paper.
Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum to see this print in person.
Overview
The work is a full‑length printed portrait depicting Mrs Cuyler in the role of Cressida from Shakespeare’s *Troilus and Cressida*. Executed in 1785, the image captures a moment of poised stillness, presenting the figure in a theatrical costume against a neutral background. The print belongs to the broader Romantic period, reflecting the era’s interest in dramatic narrative and emotional nuance.
Subject & Meaning
Mrs Cuyler is shown as Cressida, a character associated with love, betrayal and the tragic dimensions of war. The composition freezes a brief, contemplative pause in the play’s action, inviting viewers to consider the inner conflict of the heroine as she stands between personal desire and political duty. The portrayal emphasizes the tension between public performance and private sentiment.
Technique & Style
Created as an ink‑based print, the image balances precise line work with softened tonal transitions, allowing details of costume and facial expression to remain clear while the overall effect is gentle rather than stark. The artist employs a restrained palette typical of 18th‑century printmaking, using fine hatching to suggest texture and depth without overwhelming the composition.
History & Provenance
The print was produced by the artist Burney in 1785, during a period when theatrical portraiture was popular among patrons. It entered the H Beard Print Collection, a private assemblage later acquired by a public institution. The work is currently held by the Victoria and Albert Museum, where it is accessible for scholarly study and public viewing.
Artist & collection
Artist
Edward Francis Burney (7 September 1760 – 16 December 1848) was an English painter. His middle name is sometimes given as "Francisco" or "Francesco".
