Tinsel print depicting Mr Osbaldiston in the character of Hardyknute in an unknown play. From an engraving published by M & B. Skelton, ca. 1840.
Tinsel prints were created from etched portraits of theatrical stars in popular roles they played on the London stage. They were hand-painted in watercolour and decorated with scraps of material and tinsel additions. They were popular during the first half of the 19th century and were considered an adult, rather than a child's hobby. By the 1830s it was possible to buy the tinsel, leather and feather ornaments to go with each image.