Artwork

Dundrum Quarry

Dundrum Quarry, by Clementina Hawarden, photographic, 1858
Dundrum Quarry, by Clementina Hawarden, photographic, 1858

Dundrum Quarry is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Clementina Hawarden. It dates from 1858 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Clementina Hawarden took this photo around 1857–1860. It shows a quiet quarry scene, typical of her outdoor work. The photo is printed on paper, not painted.

Stereoscopic photography was huge after 1851. It tricks your eyes to see real depth. When you look through the viewer, rocks pop out almost like you could touch them.

Try the stereoscope at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Overview

Dundrum Quarry is a photograph taken by Clementina Hawarden between 1857 and 1860, exemplifying her outdoor work.

Technique & Style

The photograph is a stereoscopic image, a technique that creates a pronounced sense of depth when viewed through a stereoscope. This method was popularized after the Great Exhibition of 1851.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts a serene quarry scene, with a rock formation in the water that, when viewed stereoscopically, appears as a three-dimensional object, anchoring the surrounding space.

History & Provenance

Hawarden's work was produced during a period when stereoscopic photography was a popular form of entertainment, both in exhibitions and as a family activity.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Clementina Hawarden

Artist

Clementina Hawarden

Clementina Maude, Viscountess Hawarden, commonly known as Lady Clementina Hawarden, was a Scottish amateur portrait photographer of the Victorian era. She produced over 800 photographs mostly of her adolescent daughters.