Artwork
H Beard Print Collection
H Beard Print Collection is a print by John Francis Rigaud. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
The Theatre of Water was a real spot in Versailles used for plays and musical shows.
This print shows the Theatre of Water at Versailles in the 18th century. It’s a delicate engraving by John Francis Rigaud, a British artist. The piece captures a moment of royal French garden design.
The Theatre of Water was a real spot in Versailles used for plays and musical shows. It sits beside the Grand Canal, linking water, sculpture, and performance.
Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see the whole print.
Overview
This 18th-century print, titled 'H Beard Print Collection', is a delicate engraving by British artist John Francis Rigaud, depicting a scenic aspect of the Parc de Versailles.
Subject & Meaning
The print specifically captures the Theatre of Water, a real location within the Versailles gardens, highlighting its integration of water, sculpture, and performance, reflecting royal French garden design of the era.
Technique & Style
The work is characterized by Rigaud's use of engraving, resulting in a detailed and refined visual representation of the subject.
History & Provenance
While the print's original context of creation is not specified, an example of this print can be found in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Francis Rigaud (18 May 1742 – 6 December 1810) was a British painter who specialised in history painting and portrait painting. Of French descent, he was born in Turin and spent most of his career in England.
