Mr Lee Lewis [sic] speaking a Prologue in the character of Harlequin
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From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
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From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This painting shows a man dressed as Harlequin speaking on stage. He's wearing a colorful costume and a mask. The man is Charles Lee Lewes, a comedian, and he's speaking a prologue written by Oliver Goldsmith. The prologue is about pantomime and playing Harlequin. It's a commentary on the role of Harlequin in theater. The words he speaks are meant to be humorous and lighthearted. You can learn more about this style of art at the museum: Victoria and Albert Museum.