Artist: Willement was a noted heraldic artist and researcher of the 19th century. Ms. letters tipped into these volumes, and other evidence in the Folger collection, indicate that he was often called upon to advise Charles Kean on the historical accuracy of Kean's theatrical productions
Designs are found on 41 sheets of paper, containing altogether 99 heraldic devices. Each device is labeled, in ink, as to the person, family, position or organization it symbolizes. None of the items are signed
History: The heraldic designs in these volumes are probably Willement's copies of designs sent to Charles Kean for use in his productions of Shakespeare's history plays. Drawings have been tipped into copies of Kean's editions of the plays and in the preface to Richard II, Willement is thanked by Kean for his help with the 'heraldic adornments'. The plays were staged by Kean at the Princess's Theatre, London, King Richard II in 1857, King John in 1858 and King Henry V in 1859. Willement published a description and facsimile of 'A roll of arms of the reign of Richard II' in 1834, from which many of the designs in the Richard II volume are taken. FSL has Willement's copy of the published work, with watercolor designs of the facsimile (W.b.603)
Provenance: Items are tipped into Charles Kean's editions of King John, King Richard II and King Henry V, published in London by Chapman. The volumes are presentation copies, from Kean to Willement and Willement has signed and dated the front endpaper. The volumes are bound in 1/2 red morroco and have Willement's monogram stamped on the front binding. They were purchased by the Folgers from Maggs Bros. in July 1923
Subject: This collection includes heraldic devices for the majority of the characters in the 3 history plays. There are also devices for the City of London, St. Paul, and the major London trade guilds: Mercers, Saddlers, Bakers, etc. The drawings for King Henry V include designs for the banners displayed at the battle of Agincourt
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Also known as
Extended title: Heraldic designs for Charles Kean's productions of King John, Richard II, and King Henry V [Thomas Willement]
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