Henry Irving as Robespierre, John Bernard Partridge, early 20th Century

John Bernard PartridgeBritish, 1861–1945

Henry Irving as Robespierre

early 20th Century · Drawing · 34.4 × 20.4 cm

Can I see it?

Not on view at present

Where is “Henry Irving as Robespierre” now? Collection: Victoria and Albert Museum, London. Not on view at present. Checked September 25, 2026.

Victoria and Albert Museum

London, United Kingdom

It belongs to the collection, but is not on display at present.

Checked: 14 days ago
In this state since: Sep 25, 2026
Source: The museum

On the map Museum page

About the work

Bernard Partridge (1861-1945) was a painter and illustrator who became the principal cartoonist of Punch magazine. He acted at the Lyceum in his youth, using the name Bernard Gould, and made many drawings of Irving, some which appeared in the theatre's souvenir programmes. His work has provided both a record of costumes and scenery and of the dramatic effect of Irving's performances.

This image shows the actor Henry Irving (1838-1905) in the title role of his 1899 production of the play Robespierre, by Victorien Sardou (1831-1908). Set in 1794 the play focuses on the historical figure of Maximilien Robespierre (1758-1794), but otherwise is a work of fiction. It was produced on a spectacular scale, with a cast of 69 actors and over 100 extras to make up the crowd scenes.

Victoria and Albert Museum