Artwork

Bas-relief portion of frieze of nymphs with scrollwork in terra cotta

Bas-relief portion of frieze of nymphs with scrollwork 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 bas-relief frieze fragment featuring nymphs with scrollwork, captured in terra cotta.

About this work

Overview

This photograph depicts a bas-relief frieze fragment featuring nymphs with scrollwork, captured in terra cotta. It is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, highlighting the institution's early adoption of photography.

History & Provenance

The V&A, founded as the South Kensington Museum, began collecting photographs in 1852 and exhibiting them in 1858. This image was likely acquired as part of the museum's efforts to utilize photography for educational purposes, possibly sourced from external photographers.

Context

The museum employed both in-house photographers, such as Isabel Agnes Cowper, and external professionals. Louise Laffon's series of photographs of the Campana Collection, from which this image may have originated, was purchased by the V&A in 1864.

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.