Artwork
Bas-relief scroll with four masques in terra cotta
Bas-relief scroll with four masques 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.
About this work
Louise Laffon worked in terra cotta to make a relief scroll.
It holds four masques and dates from 1863–1864.
This is a photograph, not a sculpture, though it looks like one.
It shows how early photographers copied old art forms.
The Victoria and Albert Museum kept it in its first photo collection.
They started showing photos in 1858.
Check out the museum that saved early photographs.
Overview
This photograph depicts a terra cotta bas-relief scroll featuring four masques, created by Louise Laffon between 1863 and 1864. The image is a representation of a sculptural work, highlighting early photography's role in replicating traditional art forms.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is Laffon's sculptural piece, showcasing four masques in a scroll design. The photograph's primary purpose was educational and administrative, aligning with the V&A's mission to utilize photography for resource extension.
Technique & Style
The photograph demonstrates early photographic techniques used to capture detailed, three-dimensional artwork in two dimensions. Laffon's original terra cotta work reflects traditional sculptural styles, while the photograph showcases the era's reprographic capabilities.
History & Provenance
Acquired by the V&A in 1864 through agent Monsieur E. Cappe, this photograph was part of a 500-work series from Laffon, documenting objects from the Campana Collection in Paris. It was initially part of the National Art Library's collection.
Context
The photograph is significant within the V&A's pioneering efforts in collecting and exhibiting photography, starting in 1858. It also highlights the overlooked contributions of female photographers like Laffon in the museum's early photographic endeavors.
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.
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