Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by E Gregson. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph, taken by E.
About this work
Overview
This photograph, taken by E. Gregson, depicts 'Lulu' (El Nino Farini), an actor dressed as a man. It is one of many theatrical photographs collected by Guy Tristram Little.
Subject & Meaning
The image shows 'Lulu', a performer known for cross-dressing roles, in a masculine attire, highlighting the theatrical practice of actors portraying characters of the opposite sex.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an albumen print, a common technique during the Victorian era, made from a glass negative and originally mounted on card backing.
History & Provenance
This photograph was part of a large collection of 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards' assembled by Guy Tristram Little, who bequeathed it to the V&A upon his death in 1953.
Artist & collection
Artist
E. Gregson snapped photos of actors mid-performance, letting their gestures blur into the dark. One shot shows a man in "Guy Little Theatrical Photograph" caught mid-laugh, his mouth open wide but frozen, like the…
