Artwork
H Beard Print Collection
H Beard Print Collection is a print by Jean Baptiste Guth. It dates from 1900 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
This print shows a full-length portrait of a character dressed as Cyrano. The artist used color to bring the figure to life in 1900. It feels like a snapshot of someone about to step onto a stage.
The portrait likely shows Edmond Rostand, who wrote the play "Cyrano de Bergerac." It was published in Vanity Fair on June 20, 1901.
Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum for more prints.
Overview
This 1900 print is a full-length, colour portrait of a figure dressed as the titular character from 'Cyrano de Bergerac', captured in a pose suggesting imminent stage entrance.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait likely depicts Edmond Rostand, the play's author, costumed as his famous creation, Cyrano. This blurs the line between character and creator.
Technique & Style
The artist employed vibrant colour to animate the subject, achieving a dynamic, snapshot-like effect that conveys a sense of movement and immediacy.
History & Provenance
Published in Vanity Fair on 20 June 1901, the print is part of the H Beard Print Collection.
Context
For additional context on similar works, see the Victoria and Albert Museum's print collection.
Legacy
No specific legacy or impact of this individual print is documented in the provided information.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jean Baptiste Guth was a French portrait artist, active from 1875 until a few months before his death.
