Artwork
Shakespeare's Principal Characters
Shakespeare's Principal Characters is an oil painting by Thomas Stothard. It dates from 1812 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Thomas Stothard's 'Shakespeare's Principal Characters' is an oil painting from 1812, featuring key figures from William Shakespeare's plays. It is now held in the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a gathering of characters from Shakespeare's works, arranged in a line and dressed in period attire. Some figures hold symbolic objects, such as swords or books. A rainbow-colored light and ethereal figures appear in the background, adding a sense of depth and mysticism.
Technique & Style
The painting's color palette is characterized by muted greens and browns, with a contrasting burst of rainbow-colored light. The artist's use of atmospheric effects and layered composition creates a sense of complexity.
History & Provenance
Completed in 1812 by Thomas Stothard, a British painter and illustrator, the work has been part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection. Stothard's son, Robert T. Stothard, also became a painter, notable for documenting significant historical events.
Artist & collection
Artist
Thomas Stothard (17 August 1755 – 27 April 1834) was a British painter, illustrator and engraver.
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