Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Elliot & Fry. It dates from 1885 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
This photo shows actor John Clayton in a play called *The Magistrate* from 1885. Taken by the studio Elliot & Fry, it’s a theatrical portrait meant for fans.
Back then, photos like this were new and popular. People collected them like cards—first as small “cartes de visite,” then later as bigger “cabinet cards.”
Look for more photos by Elliot & Fry at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Overview
This photograph, taken by Elliot & Fry, depicts actor John Clayton in a theatrical role. It is one of many images collected by Guy Tristram Little, a notable collector of photographs and other ephemera.
Subject & Meaning
The image shows John Clayton in character, likely from the 1885 play 'The Magistrate', performed at the Court Theatre. It represents a moment from the theatrical production, captured for the purpose of promoting the actor or the play.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an example of a 'cabinet card', a format that gained popularity in the late 19th century. It was produced using an albumen print made from a glass negative, a common technique at the time.
History & Provenance
The photograph was collected by Guy Tristram Little, a solicitor and collector, who bequeathed his collection to the V&A. Little's collection included numerous 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards', from which the backing cards had been removed and the images mounted in albums.
Artist & collection
Artist
