Who painted Mr. Garrick as Sir John Brute?

Mr. Garrick as Sir John Brute was painted by J. Thornthwaite in 1794.

Where can I see Mr. Garrick as Sir John Brute?

Mr. Garrick as Sir John Brute is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Mr. Garrick as Sir John Brute?

Mr. Garrick as Sir John Brute is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Mr. Garrick as Sir John Brute

J. Thornthwaite , 1794

Mr. Garrick as Sir John Brute is a print by the Romanticist artist J. Thornthwaite. It dates from 1794 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1794 print depicts David Garrick in the role of Sir John Brute, a character known for cross-dressing in the play.

About this work

Overview

This 1794 print depicts David Garrick in the role of Sir John Brute, a character known for cross-dressing in the play. The image showcases Garrick in an elaborate 18th-century female attire, complete with a high, curly hairstyle, a low-cut, ruffled dress, puffy sleeves, and a flared skirt. The overall composition highlights the theatricality of the character.

Subject & Meaning

The print captures Garrick's portrayal of Sir John Brute, a role that involves dressing as a woman. The character's quoted line, "So how do you like my shapes now?", suggests a lighthearted, humorous take on the performance, potentially poking fun at the conventions of gender representation in theater.

Technique & Style

The print is an engraving by J. Thornthwaite, based on an original painting by Samuel De Wilde. The detailed rendering of textures, such as the ruffles and puffy sleeves, demonstrates the engraver's skill in translating the painterly qualities of the original work into a printed format.

History & Provenance

Published by J. Bell on November 15, 1794, this print is part of a historical record of Garrick's performances. Its existence highlights the popularity of theatrical prints in the late 18th century, serving as both promotional material and collectible art.

Context

The print reflects the theatrical conventions of the 18th century, where cross-dressing was a common comedic device. Garrick's performance as Sir John Brute would have been part of this tradition, with the print catering to a public interested in both the celebrity of the actor and the humor of the role.

Legacy

As a representation of Garrick's work and 18th-century theatrical practices, the print contributes to the historical record of English theater. Institutions like the Victoria and Albert Museum, which house similar prints, attest to the ongoing interest in such artifacts as windows into the past.