Artwork

Infant Hercules statuette in marble

Infant Hercules statuette in marble, by Louise Laffon, photographic, 1864
Infant Hercules statuette in marble, by Louise Laffon, photographic, 1864

Infant Hercules statuette 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. This photograph depicts a marble statuette of the Infant Hercules.

About this work

Overview

This photograph depicts a marble statuette of the Infant Hercules. The image is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, which has a long history of acquiring and utilizing photographs for educational purposes.

History & Provenance

The V&A, under the direction of Henry Cole, began collecting photographs in 1852. In 1864, it purchased 500 photographs from Louise Laffon, a French photographer, including this image of the Infant Hercules statuette, originally from the Campana Collection in the Musée Napoléon III.

Technique & Style

The photograph is an example of Laffon's work, showcasing her skill in capturing museum objects. The image was likely produced using a photographic process common at the time, resulting in a print that could be used for study and reference.

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.