Artwork

Bas-relief of Palmette and Meandres in terra cotta

Bas-relief of Palmette and Meandres in terra cotta, by Louise Laffon, photographic, 1864
Bas-relief of Palmette and Meandres in terra cotta, by Louise Laffon, photographic, 1864

Bas-relief of Palmette and Meandres in terra cotta is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Louise Laffon. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

This was a time when photography was still a relatively new medium, and museums like the Victoria and Albert Museum were just starting to collect photographs.

This is a photograph from the 1860s. It's called Bas-relief of Palmette and Meandres in terra cotta.

The photograph was taken by Louise Laffon between 1863 and 1864. This was a time when photography was still a relatively new medium, and museums like the Victoria and Albert Museum were just starting to collect photographs.

You can learn more about the artist and her work by looking up Laffon, Louise.

Overview

This 1863-1864 photograph, titled 'Bas-relief of Palmette and Meandres in terra cotta', is an early example of museum photography, capturing a ceramic relief in a collection.

Subject & Meaning

The photograph documents a terra cotta bas-relief featuring a palmette motif intertwined with meandres, a decorative pattern common in ancient and classical art, likely for educational or archival purposes.

Technique & Style

Taken during photography's early days, the image showcases Laffon's technical skill in reproducing detailed textures and patterns of the relief, though the style is functional rather than artistic.

History & Provenance

Acquired by the V&A in 1864 as part of a 500-piece purchase from Louise Laffon via agent E. Cappe, the photograph is part of a series documenting the Campana Collection in Paris.

Context

Reflects the V&A's pioneering effort, under Henry Cole, to leverage photography for educational and administrative purposes, also highlighting the overlooked contribution of female photographers like Laffon.

Artist & collection

Artist

Louise Laffon

Louise Laffon (1828–1885), was a French photographer and painter. She was one of the first female professional photographers in France. She had a studio in Paris between 1859 and 1876.