The Duenna & Little Isaac 1784

"The Duenna & Little Isaac" is an 1784 hand-colored mezzotint by William Paulet Carey, a British artist known for his theatrical portraits. The artwork depicts two actors in a scene from the popular 18th-century comic opera "The Duenna," by Richard Brinsley Sheridan. The image captures a moment of theatrical tension, with the female character, The Duenna, expressing alarm while Isaac, the male character, appears bewildered. This hand-colored mezzotint is a fine example of the theatrical art of the 18th century, capturing the drama and comedic timing of a popular performance.