Artwork
Stone Relief, Great Exhibition 1851

Stone Relief, 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.
About this work
This is a black-and-white photo of a muscular man mid-motion, holding a shield and a spear.
This is a black-and-white photo of a muscular man mid-motion, holding a shield and a spear. His body is twisted, one leg bent, the other planted firmly. The background is dark, but you can see a hint of fabric or wings behind him. The paper looks aged, with a faded border.
The artist took a real stone carving and turned it into this picture for an 1851 event. Notice how the light and shadow make the muscles pop—it’s all about contrast.
Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more works like this.
Overview
This photograph captures a stone relief sculpture, presenting it in a black-and-white format that highlights the play of light and shadow on its surface.
Subject & Meaning
The relief depicts a muscular male figure in dynamic motion, grasping a shield and spear. The surrounding elements, including a possible fabric or wing, are subtly suggested in the dark background.
Technique & Style
The use of a waxed paper negative process gives the image a characteristic aged appearance, with a faded border adding to its historical aesthetic. The contrast between light and shadow accentuates the figure's muscular form.
History & Provenance
The photograph was created to document a stone carving for display at the Great Exhibition of 1851. The Victoria and Albert Museum holds related works.
Artist & collection
Artist
These are early photographs of statues and sculpture displayed at the 1851 Great Exhibition in London.










