Bas-relief Bust of Faustina

The photograph depicts a bas-relief bust of Faustina, likely one of the Roman empresses (either Faustina the Elder or Faustina the Younger), highlighting Laffon's focus on documenting artistic and historical objects for educational and reference purposes.

While specific technical details of this photograph are not provided, Laffon's work, including this piece, was likely characterized by the photographic standards of the mid-19th century, emphasizing clarity and detail to serve its documentary and educational intent.

The Victoria and Albert Museum acquired this photograph as part of a bulk purchase of 500 works from Laffon's Campana Collection series in 1864, facilitated by agent Monsieur E. Cappe, reflecting the museum's early commitment to collecting photographs for educational use.

Created during a pivotal time for photography's integration into museum collections, Laffon's work contributed to the V&A's pioneering effort to leverage photography for the education of artists and students, alongside its own photographic service.

As one of the early female photographers contributing to a major museum's collection, Laffon's work, including the Bas-relief Bust of Faustina, underscores the often-overlooked role of women in the early history of photography and its institutional adoption.