H Beard Print Collection
24
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
24
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This print shows a portrait of two people, Edward Topham and Mrs. Wells, in costume. They are dressed as characters from a play called The Critic or Tragedy Rehears'd. The print is colored and etched, with detailed clothes and faces. The interesting thing about this work is that it's a portrait of actors in character, giving a glimpse into theater life. It was published by S. W. Fores in 1786, which suggests it was meant to promote the play. You can learn more about this kind of artwork by looking into the technique: sfumato.
