Shakespeare in 100 Objects edited by Janet Birkett
Published by Nick Hern Books
Review by Allison Johnstone
This book has been on my coffee table to browse in idle moments – and each time I pick it up there are precious gems of information to enjoy. Nick Hern Books has teamed up with the Victoria and Albert Museum which has a rich and varied collection of paintings, sculptures, designs, playbills and costumes relating to William Shakespeare and his legacy to bring us this brilliantly, useful book.
Whittling down the huge and eclectic pieces was a difficult task for the museum’s Theatre and Performance Department. The pieces were chosen for rarity value and the fact they cannot be found elsewhere, such as the set and costumes designs.
There are portraits of actors depicted in their roles, notably the first black actor to reach international renown, Ira Aldridge as Othello (artist unknown). Compare this with the portrait of Kevin Spacey as Richard II and the reader also has an insight into how production and design has changed down the years.
The countdown begins with two familiar images –the first folio (published seven years after his death) and the map of Bankside. Thereafter the book follows the First Folio model, divided into three parts: Comedies, Histories and Tragedies.
The commentary is insightful, putting the objects in social and historical context as well as the Shakespearean one.
All in all, a great book to keep close and worth every penny of the £19.99 price tag.