Man of Arms, costume sketch for Henry Irving’s Planned Production of King Richard II 

This costume sketch by Edwin Austin Abbey, dating from the late 19th or early 20th century, is a design for a character in Henry Irving’s planned production of King Richard II. The sketch depicts a man in armor with a quilted headdress, a brown leather quiver, and a red-and-white shield. The artist's meticulous detail and use of watercolor give us insight into the visual style of the era. The notes on the sketch indicate the materials and colors to be used for the costume, suggesting the importance of accuracy and detail in theatre design during this period. The sketch, an example of costume design art, offers a glimpse into the creative process of bringing Shakespeare's plays to life on stage.