{"title":"Theatrical","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"george-arnald-ara-at-the-theatre-paris-original-c-1818-graphite-drawing-jk-969","title":"George Arnald ARA, At the Theatre, Paris – Original c.1818 graphite drawing","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original c.1818 graphite drawing, George Arnald ARA, At the Theatre, Paris.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA wonderful small sketch by George Arnald ARA (1763–1841) showing a theatre interior in post-Napoleonic Paris, with figures treading the boards in the foreground.This is one of a set of five Paris subjects we have for sale, likely executed on Arnald's 1818 tour of France. The sketches have an energetic, illustrative quality—the views drawn from unusual vantage points, and featuring vigorous foliage and small blotted figures.In 1824 Arnald published a series drawings from his French travels entitled 'Picturesque scenery on the river Meuse, from the city of Leige to that of Mézières', engraved by eminent artists such as Samuel William Reynolds, Henry Edward Dawe and Charles Turner. The paper has been professionally laid down at the edges onto a backing paper support, with the verso visible, as shown. Provenance: William Drummond (Covent Garden Gallery, London). Christie's 7 December 2016.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51994504462665,"sku":"JK-969","price":128.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jk-969.jpg?v=1743166527"},{"product_id":"costumier-after-percy-anderson-theatre-costume-design-for-cairo-1921-wazirs-jm-164","title":"Costumier after Percy Anderson, Theatre Costume Design for 'Cairo' 1921 Wazirs","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1921 watercolour painting, Costumier after Percy Anderson, Theatre Costume Design for 'Cairo': Wazirs.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA fabulous costumier's drawing after an original design by influential English stage designer and painter Percy Anderson (1851–1928). This painting shows the costumes designed for actors Conway Dixon and Julian Cross in the parts of Wazir Al Khasib and Wazir Abu Shamah in the production of 'Cairo', a musical comedy performed at His Majesty's Theatre, London, in 1921. 'Cairo' was written by and starred Oscar Asche, a highly successful actor, writer and director of the period, best known for his record-breaking production 'Chu Chin Chow'. Please note, the original theatre programme pictured is available to purchase separately.Much of Percy Anderson's original design work is held in public collections, in the UK and internationally, and does not often come on to the open market.In watercolour, graphite and ink on laid paper with 'Rotary' watermark. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProvenance: The Theatrebarn, Evesham\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51995843461449,"sku":"JM-164","price":38.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jm-164.jpg?v=1743173274"},{"product_id":"costumier-after-percy-anderson-costume-design-for-cairo-1921-two-wazirs-jm-179","title":"Costumier after Percy Anderson, Costume Design for 'Cairo' 1921: Two Wazirs","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1921 watercolour painting, Costumier after Percy Anderson, Theatre Costume Design for 'Cairo': Wazirs.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA fabulous costumier's drawing after an original design by influential English stage designer and painter Percy Anderson (1851–1928). This painting shows the costumes designed for actors Mr F. Hayes and Mr C. Wingrove in the part of Wazir in the production of 'Cairo', a musical comedy performed at His Majesty's Theatre, London, in 1921. 'Cairo' was written by and starred Oscar Asche, a highly successful actor, writer and director of the period, best known for his record-breaking production 'Chu Chin Chow'. Please note, the original theatre programme pictured is available to purchase separately.This design comes from a large collection of work by Percy Anderson, much of which is signed; the style of this particular drawing suggests that it is a copy after Anderson's original design, by a skilled artist employed by the production company and used as a working reference by the costume team.In watercolour, graphite and gold paint on laid paper, laid down on original backing board.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProvenance: The Theatrebarn, Evesham\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51995844804937,"sku":"JM-179","price":44.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jm-179.jpg?v=1743173298"},{"product_id":"percy-anderson-original-theatre-costume-design-for-cairo-1921-the-banker-jm-182","title":"Percy Anderson, Original Theatre Costume Design for 'Cairo' 1921: The Banker","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1921 watercolour painting, Percy Anderson, Theatre Costume Design for 'Cairo': The Banker.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA fabulous original costume design by influential English stage designer and painter Percy Anderson (1851–1928). This painting shows the costume designed for actor Mr R. La Fane in the part of Banker in the production of 'Cairo', a musical comedy performed at His Majesty's Theatre, London, in 1921. 'Cairo' was written by and starred Lily Brayton's husband Oscar Asche, a highly successful actor, writer and director of the period, best known for his record-breaking production 'Chu Chin Chow'. Please note, the original theatre programme pictured is available to purchase separately.Much of Percy Anderson's original design work is held in public collections, in the UK and internationally, and does not often come on to the open market.In watercolour and gouache on laid paper, laid down on original backing board.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProvenance: The Theatrebarn, Evesham\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51995845263689,"sku":"JM-182","price":68.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jm-182.jpg?v=1743173303"},{"product_id":"his-majesty-s-theatre-programme-for-cairo-by-oscar-asche-percy-fletcher-1921-jm-303","title":"His Majesty's Theatre Programme for 'Cairo' by Oscar Asche \/ Percy Fletcher 1921","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1921 Pamphlet, His Majesty's Theatre Cairo Programme.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis original programme relates to the 1921 production at His Majesty's Theatre (now Her Majesty's Theatre) in London, starring leading actors of the day, Lily Brayton and Oscar Asche. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCairo premiered in New York in 1920 under the title Mecca. Described in advertising as a 'mosaic in music and mime', it was the successor to Oscar Asche's immensely popular World War One theatrical extravaganza 'Chu Chin Chow'. Like its successor, it was a rich and sumptuous production, with themes of passion and poetry, love and hate—but Cairo caused a furore because of what was considered its 'stark sensuality'.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs well as scene and cast lists, the programme includes many amusing classified advertisements, very much of their time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis programme accompanies a collection of original painted costume designs from the 1921 production that we have for sale.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51995880227145,"sku":"JM-303","price":10.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jm-303.jpg?v=1743173493"},{"product_id":"costumier-after-percy-anderson-costume-design-for-cairo-1921-wazirs-jn-238","title":"Costumier after Percy Anderson, Costume Design for 'Cairo' 1921: Wazirs","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1921 watercolour painting, Costumier after Percy Anderson, Theatre Costume Design for 'Cairo' 1921: Wazirs.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA fabulous costumier's drawing after an original design by influential English stage designer and painter Percy Anderson (1851–1928). This painting shows the costumes designed for actors Mr Mortimer and Mr Carlisle in the part of Wazir in the production of ‘Cairo’, a musical comedy performed at His Majesty’s Theatre, London, in 1921. 'Cairo' was written by and starred Oscar Asche, a highly successful actor, writer and director of the period, best known for his record-breaking production ‘Chu Chin Chow’.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePlease note, the original theatre programme pictured is available to purchase separately.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis design comes from a large collection of work by Percy Anderson, some of which is signed; the style of this particular drawing suggests that it is a copy after Anderson's original design, by a skilled artist employed by the production company and used as a working reference by the costume team.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn watercolour, graphite and gold paint on laid paper, laid down on original backing board.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProvenance: The Theatrebarn, Evesham.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51997293117769,"sku":"JN-238","price":44.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jn-238.jpg?v=1743178758"},{"product_id":"percy-anderson-theatre-costume-design-for-cairo-1921-prince-nur-al-din-act-i-js-105","title":"Percy Anderson, Theatre Costume Design for 'Cairo' 1921: Prince Nur al-Din Act I","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1921 watercolour painting, Percy Anderson, Theatre Costume Design for 'Cairo': Prince Nur al-Din Act I.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA fabulous by design influential English stage designer and painter Percy Anderson (1851–1928). This painting shows the costume designed for the actor Cecil Humphreys in the part of Prince Nur al-Din in the production of 'Cairo', a musical comedy performed at His Majesty's Theatre, London, in 1921. 'Cairo' was written by and starred Oscar Asche, a highly successful actor, writer and director of the period, best known for his record-breaking production 'Chu Chin Chow'.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMuch of Percy Anderson's original design work is held in public collections, in the UK and internationally, and does not often come on to the open market.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn watercolour and graphite on laid paper, laid down on original backing board.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePlease note, the original theatre programme pictured is available to purchase separately.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProvenance: The Theatrebarn, Evesham\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52013133496649,"sku":"JS-105","price":98.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/js-105.jpg?v=1743434682"},{"product_id":"percy-anderson-theatre-costume-design-for-cairo-1921-chinese-servant-js-108","title":"Percy Anderson, Theatre Costume Design for 'Cairo' 1921: Chinese Servant","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1921 watercolour painting, Percy Anderson, Theatre Costume Design for 'Cairo': Chinese Servant.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA fabulous design by influential English stage designer and painter Percy Anderson (1851–1928). This painting shows the costume designed for the actor Charles La Fane in the part of the Chinese Servant in the production of 'Cairo', a musical comedy performed at His Majesty's Theatre, London, in 1921. 'Cairo' was written by and starred Oscar Asche, a highly successful actor, writer and director of the period, best known for his record-breaking production 'Chu Chin Chow'.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMuch of Percy Anderson's original design work is held in public collections, in the UK and internationally, and does not often come on to the open market.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn watercolour and graphite on laid paper, laid down on original backing board.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePlease note, the original theatre programme pictured is available to purchase separately.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProvenance: The Theatrebarn, Evesham\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52013133529417,"sku":"JS-108","price":68.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/js-108.jpg?v=1743434684"},{"product_id":"percy-anderson-theatre-costume-design-for-cairo-1921-chinese-slave-js-109","title":"Percy Anderson, Theatre Costume Design for 'Cairo' 1921: Chinese Slave","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1921 watercolour painting, Percy Anderson, Theatre Costume Design for 'Cairo': Chinese Slave.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA fabulous design by influential English stage designer and painter Percy Anderson (1851–1928). This painting shows the costume designed for the Chinese Slaves in the production of 'Cairo', a musical comedy performed at His Majesty's Theatre, London, in 1921. 'Cairo' was written by and starred Oscar Asche, a highly successful actor, writer and director of the period, best known for his record-breaking production 'Chu Chin Chow'.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMuch of Percy Anderson's original design work is held in public collections, in the UK and internationally, and does not often come on to the open market.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn watercolour and graphite on laid paper, laid down on original backing board.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePlease note, the original theatre programme pictured is available to purchase separately.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProvenance: The Theatrebarn, Evesham\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52013134152009,"sku":"JS-109","price":98.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/js-109.jpg?v=1743434685"},{"product_id":"regency-theatrical-performance-original-early-20th-century-pastel-drawing-jt-434","title":"Regency Theatrical Performance – Original early 20th-century pastel drawing","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original early 20th-century pastel drawing Regency Theatrical Performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA bold and energetic study.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn black pastel on card. There is grey watercolour wash painted on the verso as shown.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52017206165833,"sku":"JT-434","price":38.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jt-434.jpg?v=1743497567"},{"product_id":"john-masey-wright-ows-shakespeares-merry-wives-of-windsor-c19th-watercolour-jt-550","title":"John Masey Wright OWS, Shakespeare's Merry Wives of Windsor – C19th watercolour","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original early 19th-century watercolour painting, John Masey Wright OWS, Falstaff in Shakespeare's The Merry Wives of Windsor.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis jocular scene by John Masey Wright OWS (1777–1866) shows Falstaff in Shakespeare's The Merry Wives of Windsor. Falstaff's surprised expression encapsulates the entanglement of deceit that plays out as Falstaff attempts to seduce the wives of two wealthy citizens; he in turn gets tricked and his double dealing is ultimately exposed.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWright's reputation rests upon his small, delicately rendered compositions illustrating Shakespeare and other poets. He was deeply involved in the theatrical world of early 19th-century London, living in Bishop's Walk, Lambeth, at that time the theatrical quarter, and working as a scene painter at the opera house. It is said that his love of literature was such that his son recalled how, during an illness, he broke out in his sleep reciting long passages from Shakespeare.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProvenance: This painting derives from a collection associated with the Walpole family.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn brown wash with faint graphite underdrawing. There is an additional sketch on the verso in graphite and wash.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52017229431113,"sku":"JT-550","price":180.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/JT-550_ffaf5615-4343-440a-8f52-f9824b7ce737.jpg?v=1777475640"},{"product_id":"albert-a-harcourt-victorian-spanish-dancer-in-miniature-1870s-drawing-jt-586","title":"Albert A. Harcourt, Victorian Spanish Dancer in Miniature – 1870s drawing","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1870s graphite drawing, Albert A. Harcourt, Victorian Spanish Dancer in Miniature.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA miniature drawing of a Victorian woman in Spanish dancer dress.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn paper laid down on backing paper. The corners of the paper are clipped as shown. Please note the small size of this artwork.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52017234870601,"sku":"JT-586","price":16.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jt-586.jpg?v=1743497638"},{"product_id":"albert-a-harcourt-mr-phelps-in-john-bull-at-gaiety-theatre-1875-ink-drawing-jt-605","title":"Albert A. Harcourt, Mr Phelps in John Bull at Gaiety Theatre – 1875 ink drawing","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1875 pen \u0026amp; ink drawing, Albert A. Harcourt, Mr Phelps in 'John Bull' at Gaiety Theatre.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA detailed illustration of Mr Phelps in the production 'John Bull' at London's Gaiety Theatre .\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn pale blue paper laid down on backing paper. The corners of the paper are clipped as shown.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52017241489737,"sku":"JT-605","price":41.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jt-605.jpg?v=1743497660"},{"product_id":"caricature-of-actor-john-brougham-original-late-19th-century-pen-ink-drawing-jt-670","title":"Caricature of Actor John Brougham – Original late 19th-century pen \u0026 ink drawing","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original late 19th-century pen \u0026amp; ink drawing Caricature of Actor John Brougham.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn interesting caricature of the prolific Irish-American actor playwright John Brougham (1810–1880) in character as an 18th-century gentleman. John Brougham was one of the best known actors of his day, but he has been little studied after his lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis detailed drawing resembles a print in style but is in fact hand-drawn in ink.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn buff-coloured paper.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52017249780041,"sku":"JT-670","price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jt-670.jpg?v=1743497701"},{"product_id":"theatrical-ladies-with-bird-cage-original-mid-20th-century-gouache-painting-jt-683","title":"Theatrical Ladies with Bird Cage – Original mid-20th-century gouache painting","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original mid-20th-century gouache painting Theatrical Ladies with Bird Cage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn expressive and vivacious portrait composition in black ink and vivid gouache. The iconography of the caged bird has long been used to symbolise the respectable love of marriage, but the exuberance of the women's costumes and theatrically draped curtains creates an opposing tension. A further ink sketch on a fold in the paper shows a woman resembling a more provocatively dressed dancing girl.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn watermarked 'semi-absorbent' wove paper.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52017250271561,"sku":"JT-683","price":58.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jt-683.jpg?v=1743497704"},{"product_id":"e-h-sword-fight-on-the-boards-original-1867-graphite-drawing-jt-963","title":"E.H., Sword Fight on the Boards – Original 1867 graphite drawing","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1867 graphite drawing, E.H., Sword Fight on the Boards.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn laid paper, laid down on backing paper.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn graphite with pen and ink.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52017291592009,"sku":"JT-963","price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jt-963.jpg?v=1743497840"},{"product_id":"samuel-de-wilde-boy-in-a-hat-original-18th-century-graphite-drawing-jw-015","title":"Samuel De Wilde, Boy in a Hat – Original 18th-century graphite drawing","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 18th-century graphite drawing, Samuel De Wilde, Boy in a Hat.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis characterful study of a boy is by the portrait painter and etcher Samuel De Wilde (1751–1832). De Wilde is best known for being the leading painter of theatrical portraits between 1770 and 1820. The character in this graphite sketch resembles a drawing by De Wilde of Ben in Congreve's Restoration drama 'Love for Love', engraved by James Bromley (V\u0026amp;A no. S.1298-2012). Whilst this may not be the same character, it certainly has a similar element of theatricality.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProvenance: From the Collection of Dr E.M. Brett of Hampstead; William Drummond, Bury Street Gallery, St James's, London.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn watermarked laid paper. There is a partial graphite sketch on the verso. This is one of three works by De Wilde that we have for sale, one of which is signed (see JR-639).\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52017863622985,"sku":"JW-015","price":110.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jw-015.jpg?v=1743502704"},{"product_id":"f-a-b-theatre-costume-elizabethan-maid-original-1880s-watercolour-painting-jx-253","title":"F.A.B., Theatre Costume: Elizabethan Maid – Original 1880s watercolour painting","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1880s watercolour painting, F.A.B., Theatre Costume: Elizabethan Maid.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA vibrant original painting of a theatrical costume dating from the late-Victorian era. Precisely drawn in ink then vividly coloured in watercolour with touches of bodycolour.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52018263425353,"sku":"JX-253","price":34.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jx-253.jpg?v=1743504947"},{"product_id":"steven-spurrier-ra-rba-roi-portrait-of-a-cavalier-original-c-1907-gouache-painting-jx-606","title":"Steven Spurrier RA RBA ROI, Portrait of a Cavalier – c.1907 gouache painting","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original c.1907 gouache painting, Steven Spurrier RA RBA ROI, Portrait of a Cavalier.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA fantastic gouache portrait by theatrical artist and illustrator Steven Spurrier RA (1878–1961). This smiling cavalier is likely to be an early work by Spurrier (described on the verso as 'in early days') and is similar in style to another portrait by the artist which was executed in 1907 as part of The Langham Sketching Club.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSteven Spurrier was much inspired by his love of music and theatre. The portrait combines a sense of traditional theatricality with a fabulous modernity: a limited pastel palette applied in a minimum of expressive, suggestive brushstrokes. Spurrier's figure re-presents Frans Hals's Laughing Cavalier (1624)—which after its exhibition in England 1872–1875 had become one of the best known old master paintings—a reworking of tradition in a modern style.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn board.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52018283774281,"sku":"JX-606","price":380.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jx-606.jpg?v=1743505006"},{"product_id":"edward-benjamin-herberte-victorian-circus-in-the-ring-1885-watercolour-jx-794","title":"Edward Benjamin Herberte, Victorian Circus 'In the Ring' – 1885 watercolour","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1885 watercolour painting, Edward Benjamin Herberte, Victorian Circus 'In the Ring'.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis wonderful 19th-century painting depicting the Victorian circus is one of a pair that we have for sale by Edward Benjamin Herberte (1830–1893). Herberte was prolific and is very well listed as a sporting artist, known for his spirited depictions of hunting and horse racing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHere we witness all the fun of the Victorian circus, as Herberte sites the viewer in the ring, along with his cast of characters: the side-saddle female rider, strongman, clown and ringmaster. The illustrative quality of his art brings the drama to life; and the central clown-turned-ringmaster (who turns his torn paper ring on the real ringmaster) looks out to us and points, as if breaking the fourth wall.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe other painting in the pair (see stock number JX-795) is a wonderful complement to this scene and shows the same performers backstage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis circus subject is rare in Herberte's oeuvre; it evidently allowed the artist to showcase his sensitive treatment of horses and talent for capturing lively narrative and spectacle. Herberte worked as a scenic painter in the 1850s and 1860s (in his native Midlands and Greenwich, London), so was adept at conjuring up atmosphere and a sense of theatricality. The vast majority of his output as an artist was hunting scenes, which also share a performative quality, full of energy and drama. He also on occasions painted horse fairs, such as Windsor Horse Fair in 1887.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe popularity of the circus in the second half of the 19th century cannot be overstated. By the 1880s the circus had become an art form that could be enjoyed by all, with huge circuses travelling across Europe and America, and acts had become increasingly extravagant, exotic and bizarre, from human cannonballs to aquatic performances in flooded circus rings. The origins of the modern circus, however, are deeply rooted in horsemanship, and the equestrian stunts performed by Philip Astley at his riding school in 1768. In the early 19th century the horse dramatics would include scenes from the Napoleonic wars. Larger circuses would often announce their arrival in town with a circus parade, the main attraction of which would be dozens of horses. Only later in the century did the range of acts expand to what we know of the circus today.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHerberte was one of the first artists to depict women riding in sporting settings. During the mid-19th century, the introduction of improved saddles enabled women to ride sidesaddle across country and over fences, which Herberte newly captured in his sporting scenes. In the present circus subject, Herberte includes a woman seated sideways on horseback—the very inclusion of females in this performance sphere at this time was a challenge to contemporary Victorian ideals of domesticity and feminine propriety.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe circus—combining tradition and nostalgia with excitement, dazzle and awe—is a subject that inspired many artists and designers from the late 19th century onwards, including Impressionists Georges Seurat, Renoir and Degas, Walter Sickert, Toulouse-Lautrec, and in the 1920s, Dame Laura Knight. It also developed its own kind of visual iconography in the ubiquitous advertisements that would accompany the Greatest Show on Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn watercolour with gum arabic and with touches of white bodycolour. Presented in a smart cream window mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProvenance: Albany Gallery Collection.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52018308448585,"sku":"JX-794","price":680.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jx-794.jpg?v=1743505087"},{"product_id":"f-a-b-theatre-costume-undine-a-water-nymph-original-1880s-watercolour-painting-jy-643","title":"F.A.B., Theatre Costume: 'Undine' A Water Nymph – 1880s watercolour painting","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1880s watercolour painting, F.A.B., Theatre Costume: 'Undine' A Water Nymph.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA vibrant original painting of a theatrical costume dating from the late-Victorian era. Precisely drawn in ink then vividly coloured in watercolour with touches of bodycolour.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThere is a partial graphite sketch on the verso.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52019005129033,"sku":"JY-643","price":36.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jy-643.jpg?v=1743507798"},{"product_id":"f-a-b-theatre-costume-falka-original-1880s-watercolour-painting-jy-648","title":"F.A.B., Theatre Costume: 'Falka' – Original 1880s watercolour painting","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1880s watercolour painting, F.A.B., Theatre Costume: 'Falka'.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA vibrant original painting of a theatrical costume dating from the late-Victorian era. Precisely drawn in ink then vividly coloured in watercolour with touches of bodycolour.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn watermarked Whatman wove paper.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52019005325641,"sku":"JY-648","price":36.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jy-648.jpg?v=1743507802"},{"product_id":"g-b-theatre-costume-margaret-original-1880s-watercolour-painting-jy-650","title":"G.B., Theatre Costume: Margaret – Original 1880s watercolour painting","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1880s watercolour painting, G.B., Theatre Costume: Margaret.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA vibrant original painting of a theatrical costume dating from the late-Victorian era. Precisely drawn in ink then vividly coloured in watercolour with touches of bodycolour.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52019005456713,"sku":"JY-650","price":36.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jy-650.jpg?v=1743507805"},{"product_id":"george-j-cayley-amateur-dramatics-at-col-playfairs-algiers-1874-watercolour-jz-424","title":"George J. Cayley, Amateur Dramatics at Col Playfair's, Algiers –1874 watercolour","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original 1874 watercolour painting, George J. Cayley, Amateur Dramatics at Col Playfair's, Algiers: Performance of 'Old Poz'.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn interesting painting showing an amateur dramatic performance of 'Old Poz' at the home of Consul-General Playfair's House in Algiers. Depicted are two of the artist's children, Hugh and Violet.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGeorge John Cayley (1826–1878) went to live with his family in Algiers in 1870 to try to improve his health. Cayley was an English eccentric who travelled widely, and was a gifted artist and accomplished metal-worker. In 1862 he collaborated on a design with the painter George Frederick Watts RA. Cayley dabbled in poetry and wrote a number of books, some of which he illustrated. He is also remembered as a significant early proponent of Lawn Tennis: a talented player, he worked on the development of tennis rackets and wrote an article on the subject for The Edinburgh Review in 1875.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn watercolour with pen and ink. Laid down on backing paper.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52019755581769,"sku":"JZ-424","price":72.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/jz-424.jpg?v=1743510787"},{"product_id":"circle-of-frederick-cayley-robinson-symbolist-set-design1910s-gouache-painting-ka-189","title":"Circle of Frederick Cayley Robinson, Symbolist Set Design–1910s gouache painting","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original c.1910s gouache painting, Circle of Frederick Cayley Robinson ARA RWS, Symbolist Set Design: The Proud Princesses.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA gorgeous painting in gouache, this image features elements of decorative Art Nouveau, Art Deco and mystical Symbolism. It appears to be a set design, with the accompanying title 'The Proud Princesses'; this possibly is a version of the traditional fairytale known as The Twelve Dancing Princesses.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe painting is in the vein of various artist-designer-illustrators who turned their hand to theatre set design in the opening decades of the 20th century. In particular it bears similarity to the work of Frederick Cayley Robinson ARA RWS (1862–1927), who repeatedly utilised motifs such as girls or young women dancing in a ring, moonlight and cypress trees. Robinson was influenced by the Edward Burne-Jones and Pre-Raphaelite movement, and the works of the French symbolist painter, Pierre Puvis de Chavannes; here the princesses adopt a medievalism redolent of Pre-Raphaelitism as well as a dreamlike classicism evocative of the robed maidens of Puvis de Chavannes. The upright linearity of the composition, and its symmetry, are also features of Robinson's designs.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFrederick Cayley Robinson produced designs for Maurice Maeterlinck's 'fairy play', The Blue Bird—described as a 'transcendental pantomime' or 'philosophical Peter Pan'—which premiered at the Haymarket Theatre in December 1909. The play and its publication were an immediate success and it was re-issued in 1911 with illustrations by Robinson. Whilst the present design is not amongst Robinson's published illustrations for this, the motifs and structure of the painting, including the title section originally positioned below, bear striking similarity to them.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn gouache and wash on cream wove paper.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe paper is accompanied by (but detached from) its original card backing. The card backing has historically been cut, separating the lower part bearing the picture's title, but it is now hinged back together for reference. Please see photos for detail.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52020358578505,"sku":"KA-189","price":695.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/ka-189.jpg?v=1743514117"},{"product_id":"v-downes-shakespeares-romeo-juliet-palm-to-palm-c-1898-watercolour-ka-869","title":"V. Downes, Shakespeare's Romeo \u0026 Juliet Palm to Palm – c.1898 watercolour","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original c.1898 watercolour painting, V. Downes, Shakespeare's Romeo \u0026amp; Juliet Palm to Palm.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA vivid, intensely coloured evocation of Shakespeare.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDating from around 1898, this painting forms part of a collection that we have for sale by V. Downes depicting Shakespearean subjects. The works demonstrate a Pre-Raphaelite sensibility, drawing on the emotional and moral complexity of Shakespeare and rendering the scenes with sumptuous detail and a jewel-like palette.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn watercolour with white bodycolour highlights. On watercolour paper.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52020504166729,"sku":"KA-869","price":110.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/ka-869.jpg?v=1743514589"},{"product_id":"v-downes-shakespeares-portia-brutus-julius-caesar-c-1898-watercolour-ka-871","title":"V. Downes, Shakespeare's Portia \u0026 Brutus, Julius Caesar – c.1898 watercolour","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original c.1898 watercolour painting, V. Downes, Shakespeare's Portia \u0026amp; Brutus, Julius Caesar.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA vivid, intensely coloured evocation of Shakespeare.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDating from around 1898, this painting forms part of a collection that we have for sale by V. Downes depicting Shakespearean subjects. The works demonstrate a Pre-Raphaelite sensibility, drawing on the emotional and moral complexity of Shakespeare and rendering the scenes with sumptuous detail and a jewel-like palette.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn watercolour with white bodycolour highlights. On pale green paper.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52020505837897,"sku":"KA-871","price":88.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/KA-871_8cf345f1-6ed2-44c1-88d7-6cfd4523fa24.jpg?v=1777478806"},{"product_id":"v-downes-shakespeares-juliet-the-nurse-romeo-juliet-c-1898-watercolour-ka-873","title":"V. Downes, Shakespeare's Juliet \u0026 the Nurse, Romeo \u0026 Juliet – c.1898 watercolour","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original c.1898 watercolour painting, V. Downes, Shakespeare's Juliet \u0026amp; the Nurse, Romeo \u0026amp; Juliet.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA vivid, intensely coloured evocation of Shakespeare.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDating from around 1898, this painting forms part of a collection that we have for sale by V. Downes depicting Shakespearean subjects. The works demonstrate a Pre-Raphaelite sensibility, drawing on the emotional and moral complexity of Shakespeare and rendering the scenes with sumptuous detail and a jewel-like palette.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn watercolour with white bodycolour highlights. On watercolour paper.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52020506034505,"sku":"KA-873","price":110.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/KA-873_640e5de2-fcc4-44c7-a682-0776d6f685a7.jpg?v=1777478630"},{"product_id":"v-downes-shakespeares-falstaff-prince-hal-henry-iv-c-1898-watercolour-ka-876","title":"V. Downes, Shakespeare's Falstaff \u0026 Prince Hal, Henry IV – c.1898 watercolour","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original c.1898 watercolour painting, V. Downes, Shakespeare's Falstaff Boasting to Prince Hal, Henry IV.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA vivid, intensely coloured evocation of Shakespeare.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDating from around 1898, this painting forms part of a collection that we have for sale by V. Downes depicting Shakespearean subjects. The works demonstrate a Pre-Raphaelite sensibility, drawing on the emotional and moral complexity of Shakespeare and rendering the scenes with sumptuous detail and a jewel-like palette.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn watercolour with gouache.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52020506591561,"sku":"KA-876","price":128.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/ka-876.jpg?v=1743514598"},{"product_id":"v-downes-the-adventure-of-the-lady-ursula-by-anthony-hope-c-1898-watercolour-ka-877","title":"V. Downes, The Adventure of the Lady Ursula by Anthony Hope – c.1898 watercolour","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original c.1898 watercolour painting, V. Downes, The Adventure of the Lady Ursula by Anthony Hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA vivid, intensely coloured pair of sheets illustrating the 1898 play by Anthony Hope, The Adventure of Lady Ursula.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDating from around 1898, this painting forms part of a collection that we have for sale by V. Downes depicting Shakespearean subjects. The works demonstrate a Pre-Raphaelite sensibility, drawing on the emotional and moral complexity of Shakespeare and rendering the scenes with sumptuous detail and a jewel-like palette.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe second sheet has the illustration drawn on card and carefully cut out and pasted on to the sheet of paper.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn watercolour with white bodycolour highlights.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Somerset \u0026 Wood","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52020507771209,"sku":"KA-877","price":88.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/files\/ka-877.jpg?v=1743514602"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0930\/4306\/5161\/collections\/JH-047_da9fc2af-602c-48f9-b026-8c60bcc0bb21.jpg?v=1745593033","url":"https:\/\/somersetandwood.com\/fr-eu\/collections\/theatrical.oembed","provider":"Somerset \u0026 Wood Fine Art","version":"1.0","type":"link"}