Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Elliott & Fry. It dates from 1889 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This black-and-white photograph depicts Dame Marie Tempest as Kitty Carroll in the play The Red Hussar.
About this work
This black-and-white photo shows actress Dame Marie Tempest as Kitty Carroll in *The Red Hussar*, shot in 1889. Elliott & Fry, the studio behind it, made these small theatrical portraits popular in the 1860s.
Back then, fans collected them like trading cards—tiny prints glued to cards you could swap or save in albums.
Check out more Elliott & Fry photos at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Overview
This black-and-white photograph depicts Dame Marie Tempest as Kitty Carroll in the play The Red Hussar. It was taken by the studio Elliott & Fry in 1889.
Subject & Meaning
The image captures a theatrical performance, with the actress portrayed in character. The photograph was likely intended for fans and collectors of theatrical portraits.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an example of a 'cabinet card', a format that superseded the earlier 'carte de visite'. Both were albumen prints made from glass negatives and mounted on card.
History & Provenance
The photograph was part of a collection assembled by Guy Tristram Little, a collector and solicitor who bequeathed it to the V&A. Little's collection included various types of photographs and other ephemera.
Artist & collection
Artist
These London guys snapped the 19th century’s biggest stars in quick, bright portraits you’d see outside the stage door.
