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Collection of book illustrations representing theatrical characters from Shakespeare and Restoration plays

 Collection — Box: Df.4.92
Identifier: Coll-2892

Scope and Contents

This is a collection of illustrations taken from printed books, representing characters in costume from Shakespear's plays, and Restoration plays. Three envelopes, labelled: "Shakespeare" (53 illustrations), "Mainly Restoration drama" (24 illustrations), and "To be identified - Mainly Restoration drama" (25 illustrations). Most illustrations date from the 1770s, and have been "Published for Bells British Theatre".

Dates

  • Creation: 1770s

Language of Materials

English

Full Extent

1 box : 3 envelopes, 102 illustrations total

Custodial History

From the "Df" sequence, which is mainly printed books. One envelope bears the name of C. P. [Charles Pringle] Finlayson, Keeper of the Manuscripts at Old College (University of Edinburgh) from 1946 to 1978.

Alternative reference

Df.4.92

Physical Description

In a folder with rigid boards, labelled "Theatrical Characters + book illustrations from of [sic] Shakespear's Plays + many others in period costumes + from Restoration Plays etc.". The folder itself is in a black and light brown repurposed box labelled "Lexical +c." on the spine.

Processing Information

Catalogued in April 2025 by Aline Brodin.

Title
Collection of book illustrations representing theatrical characters from Shakespeare and Restoration plays, 1770s
Author
Aline Brodin
Date
April 2025
Description rules
Isad(g)2
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin

Repository Details

Part of the University of Edinburgh Library Heritage Collections Repository

Contact:
Centre for Research Collections
University of Edinburgh Main Library
George Square
Edinburgh EH8 9LJ Scotland
+44(0)131 650 8379