Enamelled earthenware bas-relief medallion of Saint Augustin
1864
photographic
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1864
photographic
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This medallion shows Saint Augustin in enamel on earthenware. It’s a photograph from 1863–64 by Louise Laffon. The piece blends Impressionism and Realism, two movements pushing art in new directions. The Victoria and Albert Museum started collecting photos in 1852. They were the first museum to do so—and even exhibit them. Henry Cole, their first director, saw how photos could help artists and students. Want to see more early photography? Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum.
