Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Elliot & Fry. It dates from 1886 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph depicts Violet Cameron in the title role of Lurline at the Avenue Theatre in 1886.
About this work
This photo shows Violet Cameron playing Lurline on stage in 1886.
Elliot & Fry took the picture at the Avenue Theatre for publicity.
Cabinet cards like this replaced tiny visiting-card photos as the big trend.
The photo is an albumen print on stiff card—common back then for actors.
It shows how theatre stars used images to stay in the public eye.
Look up Elliot & Fry next.
Overview
This photograph depicts Violet Cameron in the title role of Lurline at the Avenue Theatre in 1886. Taken by Elliot & Fry for publicity purposes, it is an albumen print on stiff card, characteristic of theatrical promotional materials during the late 19th century.
Subject & Meaning
The image captures Violet Cameron as Lurline, highlighting the use of photography by theatre stars to maintain public visibility. It reflects the intersection of theatre and emerging photographic technology in Victorian England.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an albumen print, a common technique at the time, mounted on stiff card. This format, known as a cabinet card, was popular for theatrical portraits, succeeding the smaller carte de visite due to its durability and larger size.
History & Provenance
Originally part of a collection of cartes de visite and cabinet cards assembled by Guy Tristram Little, it was later bequeathed to the V&A. Little, a collector and solicitor, played a role in shaping the V&A's Theatre Collections through his association with Mrs. Gabrielle Enthoven.
Context
Created during the 1880s, the photograph aligns with the peak of cabinet cards' popularity, a period when photography was increasingly used for theatrical promotion. It also marks a transitional phase in photographic formats, preceding the rise of postcards and modern studio portraits.
Legacy
As part of the V&A's collection, the photograph contributes to the historical record of Victorian theatre and the evolution of photographic practices in promotional contexts. It also underscores the significance of collectors like Guy Little in preserving theatrical heritage.
Artist & collection
Artist
