Artwork
Mrs Lee Lewis as Lady Sadlife
Mrs Lee Lewis as Lady Sadlife is a print by the Romanticist artist James Thornthwaite. It dates from 10 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
The title of this print is Mrs Lee Lewis as Lady Sadlife.
It was created by James Thornthwaite in 1792.
The subject of the print, Catharine Maria O'Neal, had a limited career in London, appearing in only two performances.
She spent most of her time performing in Edinburgh.
Check out the movement Romanticism to learn more about the style that influenced this work.
Overview
Mrs Lee Lewis as Lady Sadlife is an 1792 print by James Thornthwaite depicting Catharine Maria O'Neal, the third wife of actor and author Charles Lee Lewes, in the role of Lady Sadlife.
Subject & Meaning
The print portrays Catharine Maria O'Neal as Lady Sadlife, a character from Colley Cibber's play The Double Gallant, first performed in 1707. Notably, there is no record of O'Neal performing this role in either Edinburgh or London during her career.
Technique & Style
Created in 1792, the print reflects influences of the emerging Romanticism movement, characterized by expressive and emotive representations. However, specific technical details of the print are not provided.
History & Provenance
Catharine Maria O'Neal's theatrical career was largely based in Edinburgh from 1792 to 1795, with rare London appearances, including her husband's benefit at Covent Garden in 1790 and the Haymarket Theatre in 1791. She passed away in Edinburgh in March 1796.
Context
The play The Double Gallant, written or adapted by Colley Cibber, premiered at the Haymarket Theatre in 1707. O'Neal's portrayal of Lady Sadlife, as captured by Thornthwaite, intersects with the theatrical traditions of the time, though her performance of this specific role is not documented.
Artist & collection
Artist
James Thornthwaite made prints in late-18th-century London. His two surviving works turn actors into comic characters: *Mr. Lewis as the Copper Captain* and *Mrs. Lee Lewis as Lady Sadlife*. Both prints play with…
