Artwork
H Beard Print Collection
H Beard Print Collection is a print by John William Gear. It dates from 1925 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This lithographed print, created around 1825, depicts Mr.
About this work
This is a portrait print by John William Gear, made around 1925.
It shows a man named Mr. Liston playing a character called Paul Pry.
This kind of print was done with ink on stone, then pressed onto paper.
The print was first published in 1825 by Gear himself.
It was later added to the Harry Beard Collection.
Harvard notes the printer was C. Hullmandel.
Look up the artist Gear, John William next.
Overview
This lithographed print, created around 1825, depicts Mr. Liston portraying the character Paul Pry. It was published by J. W. Gear and printed by C. Hullmandel, later becoming part of the Harry Beard Print Collection.
Subject & Meaning
The print features Mr. Liston in the role of Paul Pry, a character from a play. Paul Pry was a popular comedic figure known for his nosy and interfering nature, often used for social commentary. The portrayal captures Liston's interpretation of this iconic character.
Technique & Style
The print was produced using lithography, an innovative technique at the time, involving drawing on stone with ink before transferring the image to paper. This method allowed for mass production of images with nuanced line work and tonal variations.
History & Provenance
Initially published in 1825 by J. W. Gear, the print was later acquired by the Harry Beard Collection. Notably, the printing process was handled by C. Hullmandel, as documented by Harvard.
Context
Emerging in the early 19th century, lithography enabled widespread dissemination of theatrical portraits. This print reflects the popularity of character actors like Mr. Liston and the public's interest in theatrical personalities of the time.
Legacy
As part of the Harry Beard Print Collection, this lithograph contributes to the historical record of early 19th-century theatrical culture and the development of lithographic printing techniques.
Artist & collection
Artist
John William Gear made prints in the early 19th century, mostly portraits and scenes collected under the “H Beard Print Collection” label.
