Inventory of the Theatre Actor Dramatic Prints Collection
The collection consists of 287 intaglio prints (primarily engravings and etchings) of British and American theatre actors, mostly portraits or the actors in character. Eight prints are framed and were displayed in the Wake Forest University Theatre Department.
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Summary Information
- Repository
- Z. Smith Reynolds Library Special Collections and Archives
- Title
- Theatre Actor Dramatic Prints (Engravings) Collection
- Date
- 1770-1840 (inclusive)
- Extent
- 3.0 linear feet / 287 intaglio prints in 4 half letter document boxes and 2 legal document boxes.
- ID
- MS581
Collection Overview
The collection represents a range of popular British and American theatre actors, including Shakespearean performers. Performers are portrayed in busts, half- to full-length portraits, scenes from plays, or in dramatic character. Actors, playwrights, dancers, theatrical managers, and popular performers are represented. Prints in the collection date from circa 1770 to 1840 and include engravings and etchings.
Collection Arrangement
The collection is arranged alphabetically by performer last name in three sets. A set of prints of Shakespearean theatre actors begins with image number 238. Framed engravings are alphabetical by performer last name.
Controlled Access Headings
Genres
- Actors--Great Britain--Portraits--1775-1875
- Actors--United States--Portraits--1775-1875
- intaglio printing
- Shakespearean actors and actresses
- Theatrical managers--Portraits--1775-1875
Administrative Information
- Publication Information
- Finding aid prepared by Audra Eagle, June 2010
- Access Note
- Collection is open to research.
- Custodial History
- Origin of the collection is unknown but presumed to be assembled by library or college staff before 1990. Framed prints were hung in the Theatre Department prior to 1976.
- Preferred Citation
- Theatre Actor Dramatic Prints Collection, MS 581, Z. Smith Reynolds Library Special Collections and Archives, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
- Preferred Citation
- Theatre Actor Dramatic Prints Collection, MS 581, Z. Smith Reynolds Library Special Collections and Archives, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.