Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Southwell Brothers. It dates from 10 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph depicts Mademoiselle Carlotta Patti in a theatrical pose, captured during the mid-19th century.
About this work
Overview
This photograph depicts Mademoiselle Carlotta Patti in a theatrical pose, captured during the mid-19th century. It is an example of a 'carte de visite', a small albumen print on card, popular during the Victorian era.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Mademoiselle Carlotta Patti, is portrayed in a theatrical style, reflecting the common practice of actors and actresses of the time to have such photographs taken for public consumption and collection.
Technique & Style
The image is an albumen print from a glass negative, mounted on stiff card backing, characteristic of 'cartes de visite' which were patented in 1854 and widely produced in the 1860s.
History & Provenance
This photograph was part of a large collection assembled by Guy Tristram Little, later bequeathed to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) upon his death in 1953.
Context
Produced during the 1860s 'carte de visite' boom, this photograph was one of millions, serving as a collectible item, alongside scenic views and other portraits, before being superseded by 'cabinet cards' in the late 1870s.
Legacy
Now part of the V&A's Theatre Collections, initially founded on Mrs. Gabrielle Enthoven's theatrical collection (for whom Little was executor), it contributes to the historical record of Victorian theatrical portraiture and the evolution of photographic practices.
Artist & collection
Artist
