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Mr. Garrick in the Character of Richard III

1746
William Hogarth (English, 1697–1764) , and Charles Grignion I (British, 1717–1810)
Hogarth presents David Garrick in the title role of Shakespeare's tragic play Richard III, a portrayal that brought the young actor instant success and launched a great period of Shakespearean production in England. Garrick's dynamic acting, celebrated for its naturalness and powerful characterization, appealed to audiences tired of the formality of traditional theater. Hogarth captures him in a moment of high drama as Richard III wakes from a nightmare filled with the ghosts of those he has had killed.

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