Miss Fitzpatrick as Katharina (Taming of the Shrew)

Art Historical Context

In the mid-19th century, and visual reproductions intertwined to bring star performers into homes across Victorian England. *Miss Fitzpatrick as Katharina (T of the Shrew)*, created in 1851, actress Emma Fitzpatrick in the fiery of Shakespeare's headstrong heroine from the beloved comedy. Produced by The London Printing and Publishing Company this hand-colored engraving draws from a photograph by pioneering portraitist John Jabez Edwinall and was meticulously engraved by George Greatbach. Measuring just 9 11/16 × 6 inches, its intimate scale made it ideal for collectors and theater enthusiasts. Hand-coloring elevated engravings like this beyond mere black-and-white reproductions, adding vibrant hues to Fitzpatrick's expressive features and dramatic costume—evoking Katharina's bold spirit. This technique bridged emerging photography with traditional printmaking, democratizing access to theatrical portraits during a Shakespeare revival. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Drawings and Prints department (acquired via the 1967 Harry G. Friedman Bequest), it highlights women's prominent roles on stage and in visual culture, offering a window into 19th-century performance and artistry.

About the Artist

George Greatbach|The London Printing and Publishing Company|Emma Ftizpatrick|John Jabez Edwin Mayall (British| |British|British) · 1819 |1800 |1768 |1813 –1884 |1900 |1868 |1901

British, Stoke-on-Trent 1819–1884 Friern Park, Middlesex|London and New York, 1853–1882|British, died 1868|British, Oldham, Lancashire 1813–1901 West Sussex