Artwork

Bas-relief of portion of frieze with acanthus ornament enclosing vases and honesuckle in terra cotta

Bas-relief of portion of frieze with acanthus ornament enclosing vases and honesuckle in terra cotta is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Louise Laffon. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph depicts a terra cotta bas-relief frieze featuring acanthus leaves, vases, and honeysuckle.

About this work

Louise Laffon made this terra cotta photo in 1863–64.
It shows a carved frieze with acanthus leaves, vases, and honeysuckle.
Photography was new then, so Cole pushed the South Kensington Museum to collect it.

Cole wanted artists and students to use photos like study prints.
The museum stored them in its National Art Library for easy copying.

Look up the artist who took this photo: Laffon, Louise

Overview

This photograph depicts a terra cotta bas-relief frieze featuring acanthus leaves, vases, and honeysuckle. It was taken by Louise Laffon in 1863–64.

Subject & Meaning

The image shows a carved frieze, likely used as a study aid for artists and students. The ornate design reflects the decorative arts of the time.

History & Provenance

The Victoria and Albert Museum acquired this photograph as part of a series of 500 works by Laffon in 1864, purchased through the agent Monsieur E. Cappe. The museum was an early adopter of photography, collecting and exhibiting it from its inception.

Technique & Style

Laffon's photograph showcases the early application of photography to document museum objects, a practice championed by Henry Cole, the museum's founding Director.

Context

The South Kensington Museum, now the V&A, was a pioneer in collecting and exhibiting photographs, recognizing their potential as a resource for artists and students.

Artist & collection

Artist

Louise Laffon

Louise Laffon (1828–1885), was a French photographer and painter. She was one of the first female professional photographers in France. She had a studio in Paris between 1859 and 1876.