What movement is Statue of Reclining Female with Grapes, Great Exhibition 1851?

Statue of Reclining Female with Grapes, Great Exhibition 1851 is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Statue of Reclining Female with Grapes, Great Exhibition 1851

Statue of Reclining Female with Grapes, Great Exhibition 1851 is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Nicolaas Henneman. It dates from 1851 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. A waxed paper negative photograph from 1851 captures a damaged sculpture on display at the Great Exhibition.

About this work

This photo was taken at the Great Exhibition in 1851, a big show of art and inventions.

This is a black-and-white photo of a broken statue. Only the upper half remains—arms raised, one hand clutching a bunch of grapes. The torso is draped in a loose cloth, and the head is missing. The surface looks worn, with cracks and missing pieces.

This photo was taken at the Great Exhibition in 1851, a big show of art and inventions. The statue’s grapes might hint at a story or symbol, but it’s unclear.

Next, check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more pieces like this.

Overview

A waxed paper negative photograph from 1851 captures a damaged sculpture on display at the Great Exhibition.

Subject & Meaning

The sculpture depicts a reclining female figure with raised arms, one hand grasping grapes, and a draped torso; the head is missing. The grapes may allude to a narrative or symbolic significance, but their specific meaning is unclear.

Technique & Style

The photograph is a black-and-white image produced from an unmounted waxed paper negative, showcasing the worn and cracked surface of the statue.

History & Provenance

The photograph was taken at the Great Exhibition of 1851, a major international exhibition of art and inventions.