Artwork
Harry Beard Print Collection
Harry Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist B. Wilson. It dates from 1761 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This print is a reproduction of a 1761 painting by Benjamin Wilson, featuring a theatrical scene with three main characters from Shakespeare's King Lear.
Subject & Meaning
The print portrays David Garrick as King Lear, William Harvard as Edgar, and Astley Bransby as the Earl of Kent, capturing a moment from the play.
Technique & Style
The work is based on an original oil painting by Wilson, translated into print form, reflecting 18th-century artistic practices of reproducing notable paintings in more accessible formats.
History & Provenance
Originating from Benjamin Wilson's 1761 painting, this print is part of the Harry Beard Print Collection, though specific acquisition details are not provided.
Context
Created during the Enlightenment, when interest in Shakespeare and theatrical arts was high, the print reflects the era's cultural values and the popularity of Garrick, a leading actor of his time.
Legacy
As part of the Harry Beard Print Collection, it contributes to the historical record of 18th-century theatrical representations and the enduring legacy of Shakespeare's works in art.
Artist & collection
Artist
This artist made 18th-century British prints of everyday life, trade, and fashion, often labeled under the Harry Beard Print Collection.
