19th century tinsel print Mr Ducrow

This 19th-century tinsel print of Mr Ducrow is a magnificent example of Regency and early Victorian theatrical memorabilia, celebrating one of the most famous circus performers and equestrians of the era. These prints began as standard black-and-white etchings which were then meticulously "dressed" by hand using die-cut brightly coloured foils, silks, and metallic spangles. In this portrait, Andrew Ducrow is depicted in a heroic, dramatic pose, with his costume gleaming under a layer of embossed tinsel that provides a striking three-dimensional quality and a brilliant reflected light.

The print captures the theatrical flair that made Ducrow a star at Astley’s Amphitheatre, with the hand-applied metallic elements emphasising the intricate details of his regalia and weaponry. The surrounding paper has developed a soft, creamy patina over the decades, which contrasts beautifully with the vivid, tarnished lustre of the tinsel. Such pieces were often prized possessions in the 1830s and 1840s, representing a popular domestic hobby that turned mass-produced portraits into unique, shimmering works of folk art.

Housed in a traditional period frame, this reclaimed artwork serves as a vibrant link to the history of British performance art and circus heritage. It stands as a hardy and charismatic decorative piece, ready to add a touch of glittering historical drama and eccentric character to a curated wall display or a traditional library.