Silhouette Portrait of Mr. Wilkins Micawber
Work on paper; silhouette portrait • After a design by Fred Barnard or Kyd (Joseph Clayton Clarke), likely produced as part of a series of Charles Dickens character studies.
Style & Movement
Victorian Illustration / Dickensian Character Art
Medium & Technique
Black ink/wash on paper (possibly printed or lithographed) with a rectangular plate mark or recessed border.
Creation Period
Late 19th to early 20th century (c. 1890-1930)
Dimensions & Format
Small cabinet size; approximately 10 x 6 inches (including frame). Portrait format.
Subject Description
A silhouette depiction of the fictional character Wilkins Micawber from Charles Dickens' 1850 novel 'David Copperfield'. He is shown in his characteristic profile with a top hat, frock coat, and holding his iconic walking stick and eyeglass, capturing his optimistic yet pompous gait.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The paper shows mild yellowing (toning) consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $80 USD
Provenance History
Likely a mass-produced decorative print for middle-class Victorian or Edwardian homes; no specific gallery labels are visible, but the title 'Mr. Micawber' is inscribed at the bottom.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the immense popularity of Charles Dickens' literary characters in visual culture and the tradition of 'character sketches' that flourished after the author's death.
Notable Features
Features the handwritten-style title at the bottom margin and a distinct indented border (plate mark) surrounding the figure.
Condition Issues
Age-related toning/browning of the paper; possible minor foxing. The frame appears to be a period-appropriate late 19th-century black wood frame with a gilded inner lip.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent further fading or yellowing. Consider reframing with UV-protective glass and acid-free matting.