13 OF 111

Sir Henry Irving

13 of 111 portraits of Sir Henry Irving

Sir Henry Irving

by Philip William ('Phil') May
pencil, 1899
5 1/2 in. x 3 1/2 in. (140 mm x 89 mm)
Given by Margaret Shields, 1949
Primary Collection
NPG 3680

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Sitterback to top

Sir Henry Irving (John Henry Brodribb) (1838-1905), Actor-manager. Sitter associated with 111 portraits.

Artistback to top

Philip William ('Phil') May (1864-1903), Cartoonist and silhouette artist. Artist of 20 portraits, Sitter in 14 portraits.

This portraitback to top

These charming and informal drawings show Irving at his most private and relaxed. Irving and Phil May were close friends, and these sketches display a playfulness befitting for two old friends enjoying a cigar. The first drawing is inscribed 'Souvenir of Ramsgate Xmas 1899'.