Artwork
David Garrick, Actor (1716-1779). Head.
David Garrick, Actor (1716-1779). Head. is a drawing by the Romanticist artist Edward Edwards. It dates from 1777 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. David Garrick, Actor (1716-1779).
About this work
Overview
David Garrick, Actor (1716-1779). Head is a quarter-length pencil portrait created by Edward Edwards in 1777. The work is a signed and dated drawing, primarily rendered in grayscale with nuanced shading to convey depth.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts David Garrick, a renowned actor, in a contemplative state. His downward gaze and firm mouth suggest introspection, focusing attention on his expressive face.
Technique & Style
Executed in pencil, the drawing utilizes a range of grays and targeted shading to achieve dimensionality. While the style is characteristic of portraiture in the late 18th century, its calm, introspective quality may anticipate elements of the emerging Romantic movement.
History & Provenance
Originally part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, the drawing was stolen, subsequently recovered, and returned to the museum.
Artist & collection
Artist
Edward Edwards (7 March 1738 – 19 December 1806) was an English painter and etcher. He held the post of Professor of Perspective at the Royal Academy, and compiled a book entitled Anecdotes of Painters (1808).
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