Not currently on display at the V&A

Tinsel Print

early to mid 19th century (published)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

Tinsel print depicting Mr Osbaldiston in the character of Hardyknute in an unknown play. From an engraving published by M & B. Skelton, ca. 1840.
Tinsel prints were created from etched portraits of theatrical stars in popular roles they played on the London stage. They were hand-painted in watercolour and decorated with scraps of material and tinsel additions. They were popular during the first half of the 19th century and were considered an adult, rather than a child's hobby. By the 1830s it was possible to buy the tinsel, leather and feather ornaments to go with each image.


Object details

Category
Object type
Materials and techniques
Stippled engraving watercoloured with tinsels and silk on paper
Brief description
Tinsel print depicting Mr Osbaldiston in the character of Hardyknute in an unknown play. From an engraving published by M & B. Skelton, ca. 1840.
Physical description
The actor is depicted wearing a grey tunic, golden trousers and a dard red cloak. Holding a sword with his right hand.
Dimensions
  • Height: 21.7cm
  • Width: 17.1cm
Marks and inscriptions
Transliteration
Subject depicted
Summary
Tinsel print depicting Mr Osbaldiston in the character of Hardyknute in an unknown play. From an engraving published by M & B. Skelton, ca. 1840.
Tinsel prints were created from etched portraits of theatrical stars in popular roles they played on the London stage. They were hand-painted in watercolour and decorated with scraps of material and tinsel additions. They were popular during the first half of the 19th century and were considered an adult, rather than a child's hobby. By the 1830s it was possible to buy the tinsel, leather and feather ornaments to go with each image.
Collection
Accession number
S.36-1983

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Record createdMarch 12, 2010
Record URL
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