Artwork

Female figure playing on pipe, bas-relief fragment in terra cotta

Female figure playing on pipe, bas-relief fragment 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, taken between 1863 and 1864, depicts a terra cotta bas-relief fragment featuring a female figure playing a pipe.

About this work

In 1852, it became the first museum to do so, and in 1858, it was the first to exhibit them.

This is a photograph from 1863-1864. It's a bas-relief fragment in terra cotta of a female figure playing on a pipe.

The Victoria and Albert Museum has a long history of collecting photographs. In 1852, it became the first museum to do so, and in 1858, it was the first to exhibit them. This was part of an effort to make more resources available to artists and students.

You can learn more about this style by looking up the movement: Impressionism.

Overview

This photograph, taken between 1863 and 1864, depicts a terra cotta bas-relief fragment featuring a female figure playing a pipe.

Subject & Meaning

The image captures a fragmentary ancient relief sculpture, showcasing a female figure engaged in a musical activity, highlighting the enduring theme of music in art.

Technique & Style

The photograph was produced using techniques available at the time, exemplifying the early application of photography in documenting artworks.

History & Provenance

The Victoria and Albert Museum acquired this photograph as part of a series by Louise Laffon, a French photographer, in 1864, through the agent Monsieur E. Cappe.

Context

The V&A's acquisition of this and other photographs reflects its early recognition of photography's potential as a tool for artistic education and documentation.

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.