Who painted H Beard Print Collection?

H Beard Print Collection was painted by Thomas Cornell in 16.

Where can I see H Beard Print Collection?

H Beard Print Collection is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is H Beard Print Collection?

H Beard Print Collection is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of H Beard Print Collection?

Museum-quality prints of H Beard Print Collection are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

H Beard Print Collection

Thomas Cornell , 16

H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist Thomas Cornell. It dates from 16 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. An etched print from 1786 depicts two actresses in costume as prisoners from a production of The Beggar’s Opera.

About this work

This print is a portrait of two actresses playing prisoners in a scene from The Beggar’s Opera. It’s an etched print from 1786, meant to advertise a popular little-theatre show.

The print’s title says it was published with big applause and sold by Thomas Cornell himself.

Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum for more on this print and its era.

Overview

An etched print from 1786 depicts two actresses in costume as prisoners from a production of The Beggar’s Opera. The image served as a promotional sheet for a small‑theatre performance, announcing the show’s favorable reception.

Subject & Meaning

The composition focuses on the two female performers, emphasizing their theatrical roles as incarcerated characters. By highlighting the actors rather than the narrative, the print underscores the popularity of the performers and the appeal of the opera’s comic criminal themes.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, the work employs fine line work to render facial features and costume details, typical of late‑18th‑century printmaking. The contrast between dark ink and the white paper accentuates the figures, while the limited palette reflects the commercial nature of the advertisement.

History & Provenance

The sheet was issued by the publisher Thomas Cornell on 16 July 1786, explicitly noting the audience’s enthusiastic response. It later entered the Harry Beard Collection, a private assemblage of 18th‑century theatrical prints.

Context

The Beggar’s Opera enjoyed widespread success in the 1780s, prompting numerous small venues to stage adaptations. Promotional prints like this one were common tools for attracting patrons, often featuring the leading actors to capitalize on their fame.