Artwork
Mr Lee Lewis [sic] speaking a Prologue in the character of Harlequin
![Mr Lee Lewis [sic] speaking a Prologue in the character of Harlequin, by Unknown, 14](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/unknown--mr-lee-lewis-sic-speaking-a-prologue-in-the-character-of-har--a6c1ced4b6e54e31-w1024.webp)
Mr Lee Lewis [sic] speaking a Prologue in the character of Harlequin is a print by the Romanticist artist Unknown. It dates from 14 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
" and mocks the absurdity of Harlequin’s piebald costume and acrobatic antics, while expressing a desire to perform in serious Shakespearean roles instead.
The print depicts the comedian Charles Lee Lewes in the role of Harlequin, delivering a prologue written by Oliver Goldsmith that reflects on the nature of pantomime and his character. The text includes lines such as "Hold! Prompter hold!" and mocks the absurdity of Harlequin’s piebald costume and acrobatic antics, while expressing a desire to perform in serious Shakespearean roles instead.
Stage directions indicate that Lewes removes his mask and later "takes off" by jumping through the floor. The prologue was first performed in 1773 during a benefit for Lewes, who had been billed as Lee Lewes to distinguish himself from another actor.
Artist & collection
