Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist W. & D. Downey. It dates from 1883 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This is a photograph of Mrs.
About this work
Overview
This is a photograph of Mrs. Langtry, a notable figure of the Victorian era.
Subject & Meaning
The image depicts Mrs. Langtry, an actress, likely in a theatrical context or everyday attire, reflecting the common practice among actors and actresses of the time to have studio photographs taken.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an albumen print, a technique characteristic of 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards', which were popular formats for photographic portraits during the Victorian period.
History & Provenance
The photograph was part of a large collection assembled by Guy Tristram Little, a collector and solicitor who bequeathed it to the V&A. Little was also involved in the establishment of the Theatre Collections at the V&A through his work with Mrs. Gabrielle Enthoven.
Artist & collection
Artist
These sisters turned a London studio into a backstage pass for Victorian theater.
