Artwork
Benares. Sculptures. Ancient Bhud
Benares. Sculptures. Ancient Bhud is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Francis Frith. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph, titled 'Benares.
About this work
Overview
This photograph, titled 'Benares. Sculptures. Ancient Bhud', is part of the Francis Frith 'Universal Series' archive, a collection of over 4000 albumen prints held by the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Subject & Meaning
The image depicts ancient Buddhist sites in Benares, capturing the historical and cultural significance of the location through its sculptures.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an albumen print, a common technique during the mid-19th century, mounted on brown card with handwritten place name and stock number.
History & Provenance
Although attributed to Francis Frith, most prints bearing his name were taken by hired photographers, including those who traveled to various regions such as Egypt and Japan.
Context
The 'Universal Series' was part of Frith's commercial venture, which coincided with significant technological developments in photography, expanding its audience.
Artist & collection
Artist
Francis Frith was an English photographer and businessman. Francis Frith & Co., the company he founded in 1860 with the initial goal of photographing every town and village in England, quickly became the largest…
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