Artwork
H Beard Print Collection
H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist Richard Dighton. It dates from 20 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
This print by Richard Dighton is part of the H Beard Collection. It’s a double-sided print from 1798, showing two different images on each side.
The front shows a portrait called *The Late Celebrated Mr Ioiin Palmer*. The back shows a colorful scene called *The Westminster Watchman, Guarding the People’s Property*.
Check out prints by Dighton, Richard to see more of his work.
Overview
This 1798 double-sided print, attributed to Richard Dighton, belongs to the H. Beard Collection. One face presents a portrait titled *The Late Celebrated Mr Ioiin Palmer*, while the reverse features a coloured scene called *The Westminster Watchman, Guarding the People’s Property*.
Subject & Meaning
The front image commemorates the recently deceased Mr. Ioiin Palmer, a figure noted in contemporary society. The reverse depicts a vigilant watchman in Westminster, symbolising the protection of public assets during a period of heightened civic concern.
Technique & Style
Executed as a two-sided print, the work combines portraiture with narrative illustration. The front is rendered in monochrome line work typical of Dighton’s portrait prints, whereas the back employs colour printing techniques that were emerging in the late eighteenth century.
History & Provenance
Created in 1798, the print entered the H. Beard Collection, a private assemblage of prints and ephemera. Its dual imagery reflects the market for both commemorative portraiture and topical street scenes in late‑Georgian England.
Artist & collection
Artist
Richard Dighton spent his life sketching London street life on the spot, cigarette behind his ear and sketchbook in hand.
