Richard Burton Collection (#2)

Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton on the set where Richard is filming a poetry programme for broadcast on St Davids Day

Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton on the television set where Richard is filming a poetry programme for broadcast on St Davids Day

Syrian home of explorer Richard Burton
Home of Sir Richard Burton and his wife in Salahiyeh, Syria, 1800s. Hand-colored halftone reproduction of a 19th-century illustration

Sir Richard Burtons journey to Mecca, 1850s
Explorer Richard Burtons desert camp in Arabia during his journey to Mecca, 1850s. Color lithograph

Isabel Burton as a young woman
Isabel Arundell Burton at the time of her wedding to explorer Richard Burton. Hand-colored halftone reproduction of a 19th-century illustration

Sir Richard Burton
Explorer Richard Burton in 1879. Hand-colored photogravure reproduction of a 19th-century painting

Sir Richard Burton exploring Lake Tanganika, 1858
Sir Richard Burton exploring Lake Tanganika, east Africa, 1858. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

Captain Richard Burton, British explorer, writer, soldier and diplomat, 1876. Artist: Lock & Whitfield
Captain Richard Burton, British explorer, writer, soldier and diplomat, 1876. From Men of Mark: a gallery of contemporary portraits of men distinguished in the Senate, the Church, in science

Captain Richard Burton, British explorer, c1880-1882. Artist: Charles Waltner
Captain Richard Burton, British explorer, c1880-1882. After the portrait by Sir Frederic Leighton. Richard Francis Burtons (1821-1890) extensive travels included a journey to Mecca

Richard Francis Burton, English explorer and orientalist, 1880. Artist: Lock & Whitfield
Richard Francis Burton, English explorer and orientalist, 1880. Burtons (1821-1890) extensive travels included a journey to Mecca, disguised as a Pathan

Lady Isabel Burton with her memoirs
Isabel Burton, wife of explorer Richarrd Burton. Hand-colored photogravure reproduction of a photograph

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Richard Burton was a man of many talents and passions. From his iconic performances on stage and screen to his adventurous spirit as an explorer, he left an indelible mark on the world. The Richard Burton Season at BFI Southbank in August 2009 celebrated his incredible body of work, showcasing the range and depth of his talent. In the 1800s, Sir Richard Burton embarked on a journey to India, immersing himself in its rich culture and traditions. This experience shaped him as a young man, fueling his curiosity and thirst for knowledge. His time spent there would later influence his writings and explorations. One cannot mention Richard Burton without acknowledging his captivating presence on screen. In The Last Days of Dolwyn (1949), he shared a poignant scene with Andrea Lea, displaying both vulnerability and strength as an actor. Similarly, while filming Villain in Brighton, Sussex, he effortlessly brought characters to life with his undeniable charisma. But it wasn't just acting that defined Richard Burton; he also had moments of introspection amidst the chaos of fame. Pictured enjoying a moment of reflection in a London pub during filming or captured deep in thought during breaks from shooting - these glimpses into the private side of this enigmatic figure remind us that even larger-than-life personalities need moments to recharge. Richard's personal life was often under scrutiny as well. The tumultuous relationship between him and Elizabeth Taylor captivated audiences worldwide. Their love story played out like a Hollywood blockbuster - passionate yet volatile - culminating in grand celebrations such as Elizabeth's 40th birthday party held at the International Hotel in Budapest. However, not all aspects of Richard's personal life were filled with glamour and excitement. James Hunt's ex-wife Susie leaving him mirrored some real-life struggles faced by this legendary actor off-screen too.