Artwork

Statue of a Woman Sitting on a Lion

Statue of a Woman Sitting on a Lion, by Unknown, photographic, 1854
Statue of a Woman Sitting on a Lion, by Unknown, photographic, 1854

Statue of a Woman Sitting on a Lion is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1854 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This stereoscopic photograph from 1854 captures a sculpture of a woman seated on a lion.

About this work

Overview

This stereoscopic photograph from 1854 captures a sculpture of a woman seated on a lion. The image is presented in a black mount with gold leaf decorative framing.

Subject & Meaning

The sculpture depicts a woman in a flowing robe sitting side-saddle on a lion, with the lion's front legs and head visible beneath her. The dark background and soft lighting emphasize the subject.

Technique & Style

The photograph is a daguerreotype, an early photographic process. The stereoscopic format creates a sense of depth, while the soft lighting gives the image a sketch-like quality.

History & Provenance

Dated to 1854, this photograph is an example of early photography. The Victoria and Albert Museum holds other works from this period.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known