Artwork
H Beard Print Collection
H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist Walker & Co.. It dates from 1809 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1809 print is a satirical take on a famous Shakespearean monologue.
About this work
This print from 1809 pokes fun at a famous Shakespeare speech. It shows an actor on stage doing Macbeth’s “Is this a dagger?” soliloquy, but the words underneath are silly instead of scary.
Walker & Co. printed it in London at the height of Romanticism. The joke turns a serious tragedy into a laugh, mixing theater with humor.
Look up Walker & Co. next.
Overview
This 1809 print is a satirical take on a famous Shakespearean monologue. It features an actor on stage reciting Macbeth's 'Is this a dagger?' soliloquy, accompanied by a parody of the text.
Subject & Meaning
The print humorously subverts a tragic scene from Macbeth, replacing the original's gravity with comedic effect. The juxtaposition of the actor's serious demeanor with the absurd parody text creates the satire.
Technique & Style
Published by Walker & Co. in London, the print reflects the satirical tendencies of the time, aligning with the humor and irreverence characteristic of certain Romantic-era works.
History & Provenance
The print was published in 1809 by Walker & Co., a London-based firm. It is part of the Harry Beard Collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Walker & Co. made small prints that look like cartoons or stiff little portraits, all dated between 1807 and 1810. Each one is labeled “H Beard Print Collection,” suggesting they might be crowd scenes or theatrical…
