Who painted Fourth Series?

Fourth Series was painted by Louise Laffon in 1864.

Where can I see Fourth Series?

Fourth Series is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Fourth Series?

Fourth Series is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Fourth Series

Louise Laffon , 1864

Fourth Series 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

Fourth Series is a photograph from a series created by Louise Laffon, depicting objects from the Campana Collection in the Musée Napoléon III, Paris (now the Louvre). Acquired by the V&A in 1864, it reflects the museum's early adoption of photography for educational and administrative purposes.

Subject & Meaning

The subject of Fourth Series is an object from the Campana Collection, highlighting the photographic documentation of artworks for study and reference. This use underscores the Victorian era's recognition of photography's utility in arts education and curation.

Technique & Style

While specific technical details of Fourth Series are not provided, it is noted to be a gil (possibly referring to a gelatin or similar photographic process common during the period). Laffon's work, as part of this series, would have emphasized clarity and detail for educational use.

History & Provenance

Produced by Louise Laffon, a pioneering female photographer and third female member of Le Société Française de la Photographie, Fourth Series was purchased by the V&A in 1864 through agent Monsieur E. Cappe, as part of a 500-work acquisition from Laffon's Campana Collection series.

Context

Fourth Series is set against the backdrop of the V&A's (then South Kensington Museum) innovative early collection and exhibition of photographs, beginning in 1852 and 1858, respectively. It also highlights the overlooked contributions of female photographers like Laffon to the museum's educational mission.

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.