Artwork

H Beard Print Collection

H Beard Print Collection, by Samuel De Wilde, 1750
H Beard Print Collection, by Samuel De Wilde, 1750

H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist Samuel De Wilde. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This stippled print portrays John Lisbon in the role of the Clown from Shakespeare's 'Measure for Measure'.

About this work

Overview

This stippled print portrays John Lisbon in the role of the Clown from Shakespeare's 'Measure for Measure'. Characterized by its use of tiny dots to achieve shading and form, the work is part of the esteemed Harry Beard Collection.

Subject & Meaning

Depicting John Lisbon as the Clown, the print highlights the comedic aspect of the character, emphasizing a ruffled collar and puffy sleeves. The focus on a single figure emphasizes the Clown's individual personality within the play.

Technique & Style

The print employs stippling, a technique using densely packed dots to create tonal values and textures, particularly evident in the nuanced rendering of the Clown's face.

History & Provenance

Possibly published post-1750, the print is housed within the Harry Beard Collection, a notable assembly of theatrical prints. For similar examples, the Victoria and Albert Museum's holdings are referenced.

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.