Artwork
Bacchante
Bacchante is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Roger Fenton. It dates from 1855 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
This photo was taken in 1855, showing how artists documented sculptures back then.
This is a photo of a stone bust on a pedestal. The figure has wavy hair pulled back, showing a calm face with soft curves. The pedestal has a simple, flat top with a slight groove around the edge.
This photo was taken in 1855, showing how artists documented sculptures back then. The bust looks smooth but has some rough spots, like real stone.
Next, check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more works like this.
Overview
Bacchante is a sepia-toned photograph taken in 1855, depicting a marble bust on a pedestal.
Subject & Meaning
The bust represents a male figure with wavy hair and a serene face, conveying a sense of calmness. The subject's identity is tied to the title 'Bacchante', suggesting a connection to the mythological figure associated with Dionysus.
Technique & Style
The photograph showcases the texture of the marble, capturing both its smooth surfaces and rough imperfections. The sepia tone and the documentation style reflect the photographic techniques and artistic preferences of the time.
History & Provenance
Created in 1855, Bacchante exemplifies how artists and photographers documented sculptures during the mid-19th century.
Artist & collection
Artist
Roger Fenton was a British photographer, noted as one of the first war photographers.
