Who painted Mrs. Davenport as Dame Ashfield in Morton's 'Speed the Plough'?

Mrs. Davenport as Dame Ashfield in Morton's 'Speed the Plough' was painted by Samuel De Wilde in 1802.

Where can I see Mrs. Davenport as Dame Ashfield in Morton's 'Speed the Plough'?

Mrs. Davenport as Dame Ashfield in Morton's 'Speed the Plough' is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Mrs. Davenport as Dame Ashfield in Morton's 'Speed the Plough'?

Mrs. Davenport as Dame Ashfield in Morton's 'Speed the Plough' is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Mrs. Davenport as Dame Ashfield in Morton's 'Speed the Plough'

Samuel De Wilde , 1802

Mrs. Davenport as Dame Ashfield in Morton's 'Speed the Plough' is a watercolor work on paper by the Romanticist artist Samuel De Wilde. It dates from 1802 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 1802 watercolour by Samuel de Wilde portrays Mrs. Davenport in her role as Dame Ashfield from Richard Brinsley Morton's comedy 'Speed the Plough'. The piece is characteristic of de Wilde's specialization in theatrical portraits.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait focuses on a straightforward, unromanticized depiction of Mrs. Davenport in character, prioritizing the role of Dame Ashfield over idealized or dramatic flourishes common in contemporary theatrical art.

Technique & Style

Executed in soft pencil strokes within a watercolour framework, the work captures subtle play of light and shadow, particularly on the subject's face, reflecting a prevalent style in early 19th-century theater portraiture.

History & Provenance

Originally created in 1802, specific details on the work's ownership history prior to its current location are not provided. For similar examples, the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection is noted as a reference point.

Context

'Speed the Plough' by Richard Brinsley Morton is the contextual backdrop, a five-act comedy that provided the character of Dame Ashfield, which Mrs. Davenport portrayed. The painting reflects de Wilde's focus on capturing theatrical personalities in their roles.