Mr. T. P. Cooke as Newton Foster 1800 - 1900

This print depicts the actor Mr. T. P. Cooke in the role of Newton Foster. It was made in London, and published by N. M. Shelt. Though undated, the print likely coincides with Cooke's stage performances in the early 19th century. This image isn't just a portrait; it's a piece of theatrical ephemera, designed to capitalize on Cooke's popularity and the patriotic fervor of the time. The Union Jack, the naval uniform, the sword, and the burning ship all speak to Britain's dominance at sea and the celebration of military heroes. The print served as a kind of proto-movie poster, circulating images of popular entertainment to a broader public. To understand this artwork, we might turn to playbills, theatre reviews, and biographies of Cooke. By situating the image in its cultural moment, we can better grasp its function as a commodity and its role in shaping public perceptions of heroism, empire, and the theater itself.