Charles James Mathews
(1803-1878), Actor and dramatist; son of Charles MathewsEarly Victorian Portraits Catalogue Entry
Sitter in 27 portraits
A popular comic actor, like his father Charles Mathews; managed his own theatres, where he put on extravaganzas, comedies and farces, many written by himself. Known for his celebrated partnership with his first wife Madame Vestris (1797-1856) that began with stage appearances together in One Hour. During 1839-40, successes at Covent Garden included in The Beggar's Opera, The Merry Wives of Windsor and the role of Dazzel in Boucciault's London Assurance. In 1857, Mathews met his second wife, the actress Lizzie Weston, and reprised the role of Dazzel alongside Davenport as Lady Gay Spanker at the Haymarket Theatre in October 1858.
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