Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by Duport. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 19th-century photograph depicts Mlle Dudlay, captured using the novel technology of its time.
About this work
This photograph is from the 19th Century.
It's a picture of Mlle Dudlay.
The photograph was made using a process that was new and exciting at the time, and many actors and actresses had photos taken to be used as 'cartes de visite' or 'cabinet cards'.
You can learn more about this type of photography by looking at the work of artist: Duport.
Overview
This 19th-century photograph depicts Mlle Dudlay, captured using the novel technology of its time. The image is part of a collection of theatrical portraits, reflecting the Victorian era's fascination with photography.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Mlle Dudlay, is portrayed in a format common among actors and actresses of the era, likely as a 'carte de visite' or 'cabinet card', intended for public consumption and collection.
Technique & Style
The photograph was produced using an albumen print from a glass negative, mounted on stiff card backing, characteristic of the 'carte de visite' and 'cabinet card' formats popular during the Victorian period.
History & Provenance
The photograph is from the collection of Guy Tristram Little, a collector and solicitor, who bequeathed his collection to the V&A. It was originally part of an album, removed from its backing for preservation.
Context
Contemporary with photographers like Duport, this work contextualizes the era's photographic trends, where such portraits were mass-produced and collected, alongside scenic views and artworks, before being succeeded by postcards and studio portraits.
Legacy
As part of the V&A's Theatre Collections, initiated by Mrs. Gabrielle Enthoven's theatrical collection, this photograph contributes to the historical record of Victorian theatrical culture and the evolution of photographic technology.
Artist & collection
Artist
This guy Duport? He was the 1830s Parisian who snapped photos of actors mid-scene, freezing their painted stage poses in actual moments. His trick was timing—he’d trigger the camera at the exact second a performer…
