Artwork
Mr Liston as Clown
Mr Liston as Clown is a print by the Romanticist artist Woolnoth. It dates from 1822 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. A printed portrait of actor John Liston as a clown, published in London in 1822.
About this work
This print shows actor John Liston dressed as a clown in 1822. It’s a single portrait, not a painting but a printed sheet you’d buy in London shops.
The print came out in March, months before the August date listed here. It’s part of the Harry Beard Collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
If you like this mix of stage and print, look up the artist Woolnoth.
Overview
A printed portrait of actor John Liston as a clown, published in London in 1822.
History & Provenance
Published by Simpkin & Marshall in March 1822, this print predates its sometimes-listed August 1822 date. It is now part of the Harry Beard Collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Subject & Meaning
The print captures John Liston in the role of a clown, reflecting the intersection of stage performance and printed imagery.
Context
This work is related to others that blend stage and print, such as those by the artist Woolnoth.
Artist & collection
Artist
Woolnoth spent most of his life printing the daily news instead of painting grand halls.
