David Garrick Esq.r
Date1769
Engraver
Valentine Green
After work by
Thomas Gainsborough
Publisher
John Boydell
OriginEngland, London
MediumMezzotint with line engraving on laid paper
DimensionsOverall (Trimmed to the plate): 24 3/8 × 15 1/4in. (61.9 × 38.7cm)
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1975-89
DescriptionTitle reads: "DAVID DGARRICK Esq.r"Lower margin reads" T. Gainsborough Pinxit./ Published April 2.nd 1769/ By J. Boydell Cheapside N.o 90/ Val. Green fecit"
Label TextDavid Garrick (1717-1779) was a famous and influential English actor and playwright who entertained audiences throughout the 18th century. In this mezzotint, based on a painting by Thomas Gainsborough, Garrick leans against a monument to Shakespeare, a nod to the actor's hand in re-popularizing his work to audiences. He managed the Drury Lane theatre in London for 29 years, making it one of the most important and popular theatrical venues of its day.
ProvenanceBefore 1975, Christopher Mendez (London, England); 1975-present, purchased by The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA).
September 1, 1798
June 1, 1795
