Mrs. Clive in the Character of Philida

Date1735

Designed and engraved by Peter Van Bleeck

MediumMezzotint with line engraving

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1984-203

DescriptionLower margin reads: "P. Van Bleeck Jun.r Pinx et Fecit 1735./ M.rs Clive/ in the Charater of Philida."
Label TextThis print depicts the famous English actress Catherine (Kitty) Clive (1711-1785) in the role of Philida from Colley Cibber's one-act ballad opera "Damon and Philida" or "Love in a Riddle," which was originally performed in 1729 and inspired by the success of John Gay's "The Beggar's Opera" (which was performed for the first time a year earlier). Clive was responsible popularizing the role which she continued to play into the 1750s.