Artwork

Septimus Severus

Septimus Severus, by Roger Fenton, photographic, 1855
Septimus Severus, by Roger Fenton, photographic, 1855

Septimus Severus 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 is a black-and-white photo of a stone bust. The man has a thick beard and curly hair, carved in detail. He wears a draped robe that falls over his shoulders. The bust sits on a simple pedestal.

The photo itself looks old, with a faded, sepia tone. It was made in 1855, when photography was still new.

Want to see more? Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Overview

This 1855 sepia-toned photograph by Roger Fenton captures a stone bust of a man adorned with a thick beard and curly hair, draped in a toga, resting on a simple pedestal.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a sculpted bust of a man, likely of historical or classical significance due to the toga, a traditional Roman garment. The photograph's focus on the bust suggests an interest in documenting classical art or antiquities.

Technique & Style

Shot in the early days of photography, the image features a faded sepia tone characteristic of mid-19th-century sepia-toned photographs. The composition is straightforward, emphasizing the bust's details.

History & Provenance

Created in 1855 by Roger Fenton, a pioneering photographer. The current location of the original photograph is not specified here, but similar works by Fenton can be found in collections like the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Portrait of Roman Male
Portrait of Roman Male, Roger Fenton

Artist & collection

Portrait of Roger Fenton

Artist

Roger Fenton

Roger Fenton was a British photographer, noted as one of the first war photographers.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Septimus Severus?

Septimus Severus was painted by Roger Fenton in 1855.

Where can I see Septimus Severus?

Septimus Severus is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Septimus Severus?

Septimus Severus is associated with Impressionism.