Artwork
H Beard Print Collection
H Beard Print Collection is a print by Howard van Dusen. It dates from 1950 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This print depicts a portrait of Vesta Tilley, a renowned performer of the early 20th century, distinguished by her unconventional attire of men's clothing.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Vesta Tilley, was known for cross-dressing on stage, and this print captures her in such a persona, conveying a blend of performance persona and personal identity.
Technique & Style
The artist employed fine lines to achieve a detailed rendering of Tilley's pose and expression, resulting in a nuanced, atypical portrait.
History & Provenance
Part of the H Beard Print Collection, this work's specific history and ownership timeline are not detailed here, though it is associated with a broader collection of prints.
Context
For similar works, the Victoria and Albert Museum's print collection is referenced, suggesting the print's style and subject matter align with a broader artistic and cultural movement of the time.
Legacy
The legacy of this specific print is not explicitly outlined, but as a representation of Vesta Tilley, it contributes to the historical record of her influential performances and gender-bending stage presence.
Artist & collection
Artist
Howard van Dusen’s prints feel like secret postcards from a sleepy railroad town, all steam engines and shop signs in soft gray ink.
