Artwork
H Beard Print Collection
H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist Martin Archer Shee. It dates from 1805 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1805 print is a full-length portrait of the actor William Henry West Betty, known as the Young Roscius, in the character of Douglas.
About this work
This is a print from 1805 showing an actor named William Henry West Betty. He’s dressed for a role as Douglas in a play. The artist used printmaking to capture his full-length pose.
Barely out of childhood, Betty was already famous. Called the Young Roscius, he played adult roles with skill. Prints helped spread his name beyond the stage.
Check out the Romanticism movement next.
Overview
This 1805 print is a full-length portrait of the actor William Henry West Betty, known as the Young Roscius, in the character of Douglas.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts Betty, a child actor who gained fame for his adult roles, dressed in costume for the character Douglas. His talent and youthful age earned him widespread recognition.
Technique & Style
The artist employed printmaking to capture Betty's pose, allowing the image to be widely disseminated.
Context
The print reflects the actor's popularity and the role of printmaking in spreading his fame beyond the stage.
Artist & collection
Artist
Sir Martin Archer Shee (23 December 1769 – 13 August 1850) was an Irish painter and writer.
