MAX BEERBOHM (1872-1956) Cissie Loftus. Caricature and photograph/postcard of the actress, 1893. Graphite and ink on board. 7 x 4 inches. Signed on sketch, "Max" in upper right image. Inscribed "Miss Cissie Loftus. Tivoli. Sep. 16 '93" in lower right image.
Henry Maximilian Beerbohm, the renowned English essayist, parodist, and caricaturist, served as the drama critic for the Saturday Review from 1898 until 1910. During his tenure, Beerbohm developed a deep infatuation with a young actress named Cissy Loftus. Loftus, who debuted in 1893 at the Oxford Music Hall at the tender age of 15, quickly rose to prominence. Her burgeoning career saw her perform in several prestigious venues, including the Tivoli in the Strand, where Beerbohm created this drawing of her.
Beerbohm's letters from this period are replete with expressions of his admiration and affection for Loftus. He fervently believed that his love for the young actress had a purifying effect on him. The drawing he made during this time not only captures his keen observational skills but also reflects his emotional investment in Loftus.
Provenance: Collection of Michael Feingold Estate.
