Artwork
Bas-relief portion of a tomb in marble

Bas-relief portion of a tomb in marble 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.
About this work
Overview
This photograph depicts a bas-relief portion of a tomb in marble. It is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, highlighting the institution's early adoption of photography as a resource for artists and students.
History & Provenance
The V&A, under Director Henry Cole, began collecting photographs in 1852 and exhibiting them in 1858. This image was likely acquired as part of the museum's efforts to source photographs from independent professionals, such as Louise Laffon, who produced a series on the Campana Collection.
Context
The V&A's early use of photography was driven by its mission to support artists and students. Female photographers, including Isabel Agnes Cowper and Louise Laffon, played a significant role in this endeavor, producing and supplying photographs for the museum's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
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.

















