Edward Shuter
- Artist: William Darling
- Artist: Philip Dawe
- Date: 1773
- Medium: mezzotint
- Dimensions: Long Term Loan
- Portrays: Edward Shuter
- Museum: The National Portrait Gallery
- Collection record: The National Portrait Gallery website
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About this artwork
This is a mezzotint portrait titled “Edward Shuter.” You’ll see the actor’s face framed by a soft, shadowed background that gives depth to his eyes and lips. The fine gradations of tone are characteristic of mezzotint, letting the hand‑made print hold gentle shadows while keeping details crisp.
The sitter is Edward Shuter (c. 1728–1776), known for both acting and singing; this portrait captures him in a slightly turned pose, his cheekbones highlighted by subtle light. The overall composition is neat, with a plain cloth backdrop that keeps the focus on the face.
Published on 12 June 1773 by Philip Dawe and William Darling—both engravers of the era—the print carries their names across the lower margin. The National Portrait Gallery holds this work as part of its long‑term loan collection, a testament to Shuter’s prominence in 18th‑century theatre.
See it in person
Edward Shuter is in the collection of The National Portrait Gallery at St Martin's Place, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
