Artwork

H Beard Print Collection

H Beard Print Collection, by Adolphe Lalauze, 1850
H Beard Print Collection, by Adolphe Lalauze, 1850

H Beard Print Collection is a print by Adolphe Lalauze. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

The H Beard Print Collection contains an etched print illustrating a theatrical scene centered on Colley Cibber, incorporated as a chapter heading in a biographical publication.

Subject & Meaning

The print focuses on Colley Cibber, a prominent figure in 18th-century theatre, suggesting its primary purpose was to visually enhance his self-penned biography, offering a glimpse into his life and career.

Technique & Style

Executed as an etching, the print's technique aligns with common illustrative practices of its time, though specific stylistic attributes are not detailed here; attributed to Adolphe Lalauze, further stylistic context could be inferred from the artist's broader oeuvre.

History & Provenance

Published within Robert W. Lowe's edited, two-volume edition of Cibber's autobiography, the print's creation and inclusion date back to this publication's timeframe, with no detailed provenance of the print itself outside this context provided.

Context

Embedded in a literary work, the print served to enrich the narrative of Cibber's life for readers, reflecting the practice of using artwork to enhance biographical texts during the period.

Artist & collection

Artist

Adolphe Lalauze

Adolphe Lalauze made prints in the late 19th century, working in a style that leaned on fine line and detailed shading.