Artwork
'Mr Grimaldi.'
'Mr Grimaldi.' is a print by the Romanticist artist Thomas Charles Wageman. It dates from 11 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
His hair is short and neatly combed, and he’s looking straight ahead with a serious expression.
This is a black-and-white portrait of a man in a high-collared coat with a white cravat. His hair is short and neatly combed, and he’s looking straight ahead with a serious expression. The background is plain, focusing all attention on his face and shoulders.
The print was made from a drawing by Wageman, as noted in the small text below. It looks like it was part of a theater program from 1820.
If you like this style, check out the Victoria and Albert Museum for more prints like it.
Overview
Mr Grimaldi is a stipple engraving portrait depicting a man in early 19th-century attire, focusing on his face and shoulders against a plain background. The subject is presented in a serious, full-face bust, contrasting with his typical clown persona representation.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait is an off-stage representation of Joseph Grimaldi, a renowned figure known for his clown performances. This work captures him in a non-performative, solemn context, offering a rare glimpse of the individual behind the stage character.
Technique & Style
Executed as a stipple engraving, the portrait showcases fine, dotted patterns to achieve shading and texture. The overall style emphasizes clarity and simplicity, drawing attention to the subject's expression and attire.
History & Provenance
Created by Thomas Charles Wageman after a life drawing, the engraving was published by Charles Westmacott at Sadler's Wells Theatre on October 11, 1820. It was later acquired as part of the Cyril Beaumont Bequest.
Context
Originally part of a theater program in 1820, this print reflects the intersection of artistic portraiture and theatrical promotion during the early 19th century.
Artist & collection
Artist
Thomas Charles Wageman (1787 – 20 June 1863) was a British painter, engraver and writer.
