Artwork
H Beard Print Collection
H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Impressionist artist Monnier et Cie. It dates from 1885 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This hand‑coloured print depicts a theatrical costume associated with the Ballets du Roi, a court ballet tradition of 17th‑century France.
About this work
Overview
This hand‑coloured print depicts a theatrical costume associated with the Ballets du Roi, a court ballet tradition of 17th‑century France. The image captures the elaborate attire worn in a performance, offering a visual record of the period’s stage design and fashion.
Subject & Meaning
The figure portrayed is likely the dancer known as Miss Gaudot, who performed in the ballet titled Zoroastre. The print serves as a documentation of her role and the visual symbolism of the production, illustrating the interplay between costume and character in courtly ballet.
Technique & Style
Executed as a print and subsequently hand‑coloured, the work combines line work typical of engraving with applied pigments to enhance the richness of the costume’s fabrics and details. This method allowed for the reproduction of intricate designs while preserving the vividness of color.
History & Provenance
The piece belongs to the H Beard Print Collection, a compilation of works that document theatrical and artistic practices of the French monarchy. Its inclusion in the collection reflects an interest in preserving visual evidence of court entertainments and their participants.
Artist & collection
Artist
Monnier et Cie made trade cards and advertisements printed in Paris during the late 1800s, turning everyday products into colorful mini-posters.
