Artwork
H Beard Print Collection
H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist William Heath. It dates from 1814 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
The picture shows William Shakespeare stuck between Charles Mayne Young and Edmund Kean—both dressed as the villain Richard III.
This print pokes fun at two famous actors fighting over Shakespeare’s Richard III. It’s titled *The Rival Richards* and comes from around 1814. The picture shows William Shakespeare stuck between Charles Mayne Young and Edmund Kean—both dressed as the villain Richard III.
The joke? It’s all about who played Richard III better in 1814. Kean was the new hot actor, and Young wasn’t happy about it. Satirical prints like this spread fast because people loved gossip and drama.
Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum for more prints.
Overview
This satirical etching, 'The Rival Richards, or, Sheakspear in danger', was created around 1814 by William Heath and hand-colored. It was published in Dublin by William McCleary.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a tug-of-war between actors Charles Mayne Young and Edmund Kean, both dressed as Richard III, with William Shakespeare caught in between. It satirizes the rivalry between the two actors following Kean's successful portrayal of Richard III at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane in 1814.
History & Provenance
The print responds to the critical acclaim received by Edmund Kean for his performances as Shylock and Richard III in early 1814, which drew large crowds and sparked a rivalry with established actor Charles Mayne Young at Covent Garden Theatre.
Context
Satirical prints like this one were popular in the early 19th century, allowing print-sellers to quickly capitalize on public interest in current events and scandals.
Artist & collection
Artist
William Heath was an American farmer, soldier, and political leader from Massachusetts who served as a major general in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War.
