Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by Camus. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph depicts Mlle Richemberg, captured in a studio setting, likely for theatrical promotional purposes.
About this work
Overview
This photograph depicts Mlle Richemberg, captured in a studio setting, likely for theatrical promotional purposes. It is an albumen print on glass negative, mounted on stiff card backing, characteristic of 19th-century photographic formats.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Mlle Richemberg, is portrayed in theatrical costume, suggesting the photograph's intent was to promote her stage persona. Such images were popular among fans and collectors of the time.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an albumen print from a glass negative, adhered to a stiff card backing, typical of 'cartes de visite' or 'cabinet cards' of the Victorian era, distinguished by their small size and practicality for collecting.
History & Provenance
Part of Guy Tristram Little's collection, this photograph was originally mounted in an album. Little, a collector and solicitor, bequeathed his collection to the V&A, where it remains as part of the theatre collections.
Context
Created during the heyday of 'cartes de visite' (1854-1870s) or possibly the subsequent 'cabinet card' era, this photograph reflects the Victorian fascination with photography as a novel medium for capturing and collecting images of theatrical personalities.
Legacy
As part of the V&A's Theatre Collections, initially founded on Mrs. Gabrielle Enthoven's theatrical collection (where Little served as solicitor and executor), this photograph contributes to the historical record of Victorian theatrical culture and the evolution of photographic technology.
Artist & collection
Artist
Albert Camus was a French philosopher, novelist, author, dramatist, journalist, world federalist, and political activist.
