Artwork
H Beard Print Collection

H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist J.R. Smith. It dates from 1796 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1796 print by J.
About this work
This print shows two men dressed as characters from a play, in a style tied to the Romantic era.
This print shows two men dressed as characters from a play, in a style tied to the Romantic era.
Smith, J.R. made it around 1796, a time when prints often captured stage scenes.
It hangs at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
The print’s odd titles—Scout and Sheepface—come from that play, The Village Lawyer.
Look past the names and you get a snapshot of 18th-century theater life.
Check out prints at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Overview
This 1796 print by J.R. Smith captures a scene from the play 'The Village Lawyer', featuring two characters, Scout and Sheepface, portrayed by Mr. Bannister Jr. and Mr. Parsons.
Subject & Meaning
The print offers a glimpse into 18th-century theater life, focusing on the theatrical personas of Scout and Sheepface, despite the characters' somewhat obscure names.
Technique & Style
Executed in a style characteristic of the Romantic era, the print reflects the prevalent practice of the time, where prints commonly depicted stage scenes.
History & Provenance
Created by J.R. Smith around 1796, the print is now part of the collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Artist & collection
Artist
Earl Joseph "J. R." Smith III is an American former professional basketball player in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Smith played high school basketball at New Jersey basketball powerhouse Saint Benedict's…














