Artwork
H Beard Print Collection

H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist Annibal Scratch. It dates from 1 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
The museum calls it a “theatrical portrait,” likely of Bannister Junior, with a cheeky caption about looking amorous.
This print is a portrait by Annibal Scratch from 1790. It’s a Romantic-era piece, small and made for print distribution. The museum calls it a “theatrical portrait,” likely of Bannister Junior, with a cheeky caption about looking amorous.
It came out in a set called Attic Miscellany: Theatrical Portraiture, No. 5. Bentley & Co. published it, so it was meant to entertain more than just hang on walls.
Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum for more prints like this.
Overview
This small print is a portrait by Annibal Scratch, created in 1790. It is part of a series titled Attic Miscellany: Theatrical Portraiture.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait is likely of Bannister Junior, an actor, and is accompanied by the caption 'How to look amourously.' The image and text together suggest a humorous or satirical take on romantic expression.
Technique & Style
Characteristic of the Romantic era, the print is designed for mass distribution, indicating its intended use was more for entertainment than as a decorative piece for display.
History & Provenance
Published by Bentley & Co., the print was part of a larger collection of theatrical portraits.
Artist & collection
Artist
This printmaker from the late 1700s left behind a single dated sheet from July 1, 1790 titled *H Beard Print Collection*.











