1870s Chromolithograph by R.Dudley

This radiant and expressive artwork depicts an episode in Shakespeare's play <Henry V> published in 1600. It tells the story of King Henry V of England's ambitious campaign to invade France and claim the throne he believes is rightfully his. He thwarts an assassination plot, delivers powerful speeches, and wins battles. Finally, he falls in love and woos the French Princess Katharine, forging a bond between the two nations.

 

Act V, Scene II. 
KING HENRY V: Katherine, break thy mind to me in broken English; wilt thou have me?
KATHARINE: Dat is as it sall please de roi mon pere.
KING HENRY V: Nay, it will please him well, Kate it shall please him, Kate.
KATHARINE: Den it sall also content me.
KING HENRY V: Upon that I kiss your hand, and I call you my queen
…

 

A chromolithograph is a color lithographic print created using multiple stones or metal plates, each carrying a different color ink. It was invented in mid-19th Century, which led to vibrant and detailed color prints. 

 

This chromolithograph was drawn and etched by Robert Dudley, a renowned British lithographer and chromolithographer from the 19th Century. It was one of the illustrations Dudley did for The Library Shakespeare [1873–75] published by William Mackenzie. 

 

The same print is proudly housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. 

 

Besides the drawing itself, what makes us feel so lucky to have found this piece of art is also its frame. We can tell the previous owner must have treasured this artwork very much, as the frame was meticulously designed to present the image in the best possible light. The “frame inside of frame” style adds layers to its visual effect. It is even color coordinated with the painting! The red and gold matches the king’s outfit. The frame and chromolithograph make a perfect marriage, together they accentuate the nobility and elegance of this scene from Shakespeare’s book. 

 

Height: 24.2cm; Width: 31.6cm