Artwork
H Beard Print Collection

H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Romanticist artist Charles Reuben Ryley. It dates from 10 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1786 print, titled 'Imogen in the Cave', illustrates a scene from Shakespeare's Cymbeline.
About this work
This print shows a scene from Cymbeline, a Shakespeare play. The image features Imogen hiding in a cave. A short quote runs under the picture: “Good masters harm me not, there's money for my meat.”
The artist, Ryley, made this print in 1786. It’s part of a bigger collection kept at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Look up the Romanticism movement next.
Overview
This 1786 print, titled 'Imogen in the Cave', illustrates a scene from Shakespeare's Cymbeline. Published by Isaac Taylor, it features Imogen in hiding, accompanied by the quote 'Good masters harm me not, there's money for my meat'. Created by artist Ryley, it is now part of the H Beard Print Collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a pivotal moment from Cymbeline, focusing on Imogen's refuge in a cave. The included quote, spoken by Imogen, highlights her resourcefulness and determination to survive, reflecting themes of resilience and cunning in the face of adversity.
Technique & Style
While specific technical details of the print are not provided, its creation in 1786 suggests it may align with emerging Romanticism tendencies, emphasizing emotional depth and dramatic scenery, though the style (e.g., engraving, etching) is not specified here.
History & Provenance
Published in 1786 by Isaac Taylor, the print was created by artist Ryley. It is currently housed within the H Beard Print Collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum, indicating its value as part of a curated historical print archive.
Context
Emerging in the late 18th century, this print coincides with the burgeoning Romantic movement, which often featured dramatic, emotionally charged, and nature-centric themes, aligning with the atmospheric depiction of Imogen in a cave.
Legacy
As part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, 'Imogen in the Cave' contributes to the historical record of Shakespearean illustrations and the evolution of printmaking techniques during the late 18th century, offering insight into how literary works influenced visual arts.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Charles Ryley made prints in late-1700s England, when artists used fine lines and light shading to tell everyday stories.










