The artwork titled “Garrick Between Tragedy and Comedy,” created by Joshua Reynolds between the years 1760 and 1761, is an oil painting on canvas that measures 148 by 183 cm. Belonging to the Rococo art movement, this portrait captures a significant cultural and theatrical nuance of the 18th century.
In the artwork, the central figure of David Garrick, a renowned actor of his time, is depicted standing between two allegorical figures representing Tragedy and Comedy. Garrick, positioned at the center, exhibits a look of indecision as Comedy, on the left, pulls him towards her with a light-hearted and playful demeanor, characterized by her light attire and soft expression. Conversely, Tragedy, on the right, appears stern and commanding, gesturing forcefully towards Garrick, adorned in a more somber and serious attire. The contrasting expressions and postures of Tragedy and Comedy highlight the thematic conflict of the actor caught between the two genres. The background, with its contrast of light and shadow, further accentuates the emotional tug-of-war, presenting Garrick’s internal struggle and the duality of his theatrical pursuits. The Rococo style manifests through the detailed and elegant rendering of the characters, bringing a dynamic and theatrical essence to the portrait.
