Antique English 1800's Hand Colored Lithograph, Theatrical Character Paul Clifford

John Redington followed in his father's footsteps when he became a printer in the town of London during the 1830's. John apprenticed under J K Green, another famous theatrical toy sheet publisher. It was therefore only natural that John, himself, would progress to continue in this important leisure trade. The late 18th to mid 19th century was a period in British history when the small, provincial theatres were thriving. The public wanted memento's of their favorite characters that performed on the stage of The Bittania Theatre (or the Old Brit as it was locally called) and other popular theatres of the day. Lithographical prints could be purchased by the actor's usually young fans for a penny or two. The print could be plain or hand colored. But a penny or two was out of reach for the working class theatre fan. It was the likes of J K green that introduced a cheaper, more affordable half a penny 'Juvenile Theatrical Print' for the children of the age. They were instantly successful and became one largest selling children's toys of the Victorian period. Competition grew for the publishing of such prints; with other names emerging such as The Parks, Webbs & Skelts. John Redington came into the business much later in the Toy Theatres history but certainly made his mark. On his death his daughter continued the business with her new husband Benjamin Pollock.

We will leave you to investigate the theatrical character Paul Clifford. We have to leave you some fun!

Our example measures 8.25" by 6.5". It is mounted on a sheet of plain paper. It is glazed with a paper binding around the frame, a 12 area missing along the bottom edge. There are a few age spots, darkening of the paper and fading of Paul's coat but nothing too detrimental. An endearing original print and an important part of theatrical history. This is definitely our kind of antique item!

With thanks to Web ref: Hugo's Toy Theatre

Item ID: TA071216