Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph

Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Alphonse Liebert. It dates from 1867 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph features Adelina Patti, a renowned opera singer, captured in a portrait taken around 1867.
About this work
Taken about 1867, it captures her in a time when photos were new and exciting.
This photo shows Adelina Patti, a famous opera singer. Taken about 1867, it captures her in a time when photos were new and exciting. Most actors posed in costumes or normal clothes for these early prints.
The card style was called “cartes de visite.” These small photos were popular in the 1860s and sold in huge numbers. People collected them the way we might save pictures today.
Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum next.
Overview
This photograph features Adelina Patti, a renowned opera singer, captured in a portrait taken around 1867.
Subject & Meaning
The image presents Patti in a pose typical of the era, likely in costume or everyday attire, reflecting the common practice among actors and actresses of the time to have their photographs taken for promotional purposes.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an example of a 'carte de visite', a small albumen print made from a glass negative and mounted on card, a popular format during the 1860s.
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 upon his death in 1953.
Artist & collection
Artist
These photos capture actors backstage in the 1800s, freezing poses and props before the curtain rises.













