Artwork

Mr Yates of the Adelphi Theatre

Mr Yates of the Adelphi Theatre, by William Say, 1826
Mr Yates of the Adelphi Theatre, by William Say, 1826

Mr Yates of the Adelphi Theatre is a print by the Romanticist artist William Say. It dates from 1826 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

The print 'Mr Yates of the Adelphi Theatre' is a half-length portrait of a man seated in a chair, created using the aquatint technique.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, likely associated with the Adelphi Theatre, is depicted in attire characteristic of the mid-1820s, suggesting a connection to the performing arts.

Technique & Style

The aquatint print, made by William Say after a painting by James Lonsdale, features strong contrasts of light and shadow, creating a nuanced representation of the subject.

Context

The presence of a curtain, pillar, and sky in the background, along with partially visible objects such as paper and a quill pen, adds depth to the portrait and hints at the subject's profession.

Artist & collection

Portrait of William Say

Artist

William Say

William Say (1812–1812) was an artist.