Artwork

H Beard Print Collection

H Beard Print Collection, by Samuel De Wilde, 1
H Beard Print Collection, by Samuel De Wilde, 1

H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist Samuel De Wilde. It dates from 1 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1813 print depicts George Frederick Cooke in the role of Richard III, engraved for publication in Theatrical Inquisitor.

About this work

This print shows a stage actor in character. Samuel De Wilde etched it in 1813 to capture George Frederick Cooke playing Richard III. It’s a single sheet, ink on paper, meant for theater fans.

Romantic painters often spotlight bold personalities like Cooke. The print was commissioned for a monthly magazine called Theatrical Inquisitor.

Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Overview

This 1813 print depicts George Frederick Cooke in the role of Richard III, engraved for publication in Theatrical Inquisitor. Created by Samuel De Wilde, it is a single ink-on-paper sheet intended for a theatrical audience.

Subject & Meaning

The print captures Cooke embodying the character of Richard III on stage, highlighting the actor's portrayal of a dramatic, bold personality, characteristic of the Romantic era's fascination with intense figures.

Technique & Style

Etched by Samuel De Wilde, the print showcases a Romantic-era aesthetic, with bold lines and expressive rendering, typical of period theatrical illustrations.

History & Provenance

Commissioned for Theatrical Inquisitor magazine in 1813, the print's current location is noted as part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection.

Context

Part of a monthly magazine, this print catered to theater enthusiasts, reflecting the early 19th century's vibrant theatrical culture and the public's interest in capturing stage performances visually.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Samuel De Wilde

Artist

Samuel De Wilde

Samuel De Wilde, born and died in London, was a portrait painter and etcher of Dutch descent famous for his theatrical paintings.