Mrs. Abington as Thalia 1783

Francesco Bartolozzi's stipple engraving "Mrs. Abington as Thalia" (1783) depicts the renowned actress in a theatrical portrayal of Thalia, the Greek muse of comedy. The image is a fine example of stipple engraving, a technique that uses dots to create tonal variations, resulting in soft, delicate details. Mrs. Abington is depicted in a flowing gown, holding a mask and a tambourine, symbolizing the lighthearted and playful nature of comedy. This engraving was likely commissioned as a portrait celebrating Mrs. Abington's success in theatrical productions. The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds this piece in their collection, showcasing a significant example of stipple engraving and the artistic representation of theatrical performance.