Textiles: M0113

Title

Henry Irving's gloves worn as Cardinal Wolsey

Technique

Mixed media

Subject

Irving, Henry John (Sir)

Character

Cardinal Wolsey : Henry VIII

Date

1892

Dimensions

Height: 63cm
Width: 20cm
Depth: 1cm

Other materials

Red cloth with gold wire embroidery; dimensions the same for each: accompanied by a letter on blue paper (17.8x14) [letter removed to Garrick Club Library]

Inscription/signature

"169, ASHLEY GARDENS, S.W.1. TATE GALLERY 9165." (printed notepaper); "My 'Lighter is a constant joy to me. / 9 Oct 66 / Dear Ralph, These gloves were worn by Henry Irving when he played Cardinal Wolsey in 1892. They were left to me in her will by a cousin of mine - who was a great friend of Irving and E.T. - when she died eighteen months ago aged eigthty four. I know she would like another actor to have them. Yours Glen." (pen and black ink, text of letter)