Artwork

Majolica plate - The Last Supper

Majolica plate - The Last Supper, by Louise Laffon, photographic, 1864
Majolica plate - The Last Supper, by Louise Laffon, photographic, 1864

Majolica plate - The Last Supper 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 is a photo of a plate showing The Last Supper scene. It was made between 1863 and 1864 by Louise Laffon. The photo uses photography to copy the famous dinner image.

Photography was new then. The museum saw its value early. So they collected this photo to help artists and students learn.

Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum next.

Overview

This photograph by Louise Laffon reproduces an image of 'The Last Supper' on a majolica plate. Created between 1863 and 1864, it exemplifies the early use of photography to document artworks.

Subject & Meaning

The plate depicted is rendered with 'The Last Supper' scene, a famous subject in art history. Laffon's photograph captures this image, making it available for study.

Technique & Style

Laffon's work is an example of early photography used for documentation. The photograph reproduces the plate's image, showcasing the technique of photographic reproduction.

History & Provenance

The Victoria and Albert Museum acquired this photograph as part of a series of 500 works by Laffon in 1864, purchased through the agent Monsieur E. Cappe. It reflects the museum's early recognition of photography's value for artistic and educational purposes.

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.