Share

License imageDownload image

Samuel Lover , Irish, 1797-1868

Title

Portrait of Eliza O'Neill, (1791-1872) Actress, as Juliet

Datec.1830s

MediumWatercolour with gum arabic on paper

Dimensions

17 x 13 cm

Credit LinePurchased, 2008

Object numberNGI.2008.84

DescriptionThe celebrated Irish-born actress Eliza O’Neill famously appeared in the role of Juliet at Covent Garden in 1814. O’Neill enchanted her audiences and was fêted as successor to Mrs Siddons as a tragedienne. Her graceful femininity and extreme sensibility were greatly admired by an enthusiastic public, and stories were told of men borne fainting from the theatre after witnessing her performances. Samuel Lover’s delight in detailing fancy dress and literary themes in his miniature portraits is evident here in the Shakespearian subject and medieval style costume.
Inscriptionon gilt mount: MISS O'NEILL,/AS "JULIET"/BY S. LOVER.
ProvenancePurchased, Whyte's, Dublin, 28th April 2008, Important Irish Art Sale, lot 145