Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by Disderi & Co.. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph depicts Louise Clare, a late 19th-century actress, in a studio portrait.
About this work
Overview
This photograph depicts Louise Clare, a late 19th-century actress, in a studio portrait. It is an example of a 'carte de visite', a small albumen print on glass negative, mounted on stiff card bearing the photographer's name.
Subject & Meaning
Louise Clare is portrayed in theatrical costume, reflecting the practice of actors having photographs taken in both everyday and stage attire for mass circulation. The image facilitated the widespread sharing of her image among fans.
Technique & Style
The photograph is a studio work by Disderi & Co., characteristic of the 'carte de visite' format popularized in the 1860s. The technique involved albumen prints from glass negatives, adhered to card backing.
History & Provenance
The photograph is part of a large collection compiled by Guy Tristram Little, a collector of photographic and theatrical ephemera, who bequeathed it to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A).
Artist & collection
Artist
These guys turned photography into a backstage pass. Back in the 1860s, they invented the carte-de-visite—little calling-card photos that actors sold to fans after shows. The trick was speed: eight tiny portraits on one…
