Who painted Large Etruscan Cista in bronze?

Large Etruscan Cista in bronze was painted by Louise Laffon in 1864.

Where can I see Large Etruscan Cista in bronze?

Large Etruscan Cista in bronze is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Large Etruscan Cista in bronze?

Large Etruscan Cista in bronze is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Large Etruscan Cista in bronze

Louise Laffon , 1864

Large Etruscan Cista in bronze 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 captured a bronze Etruscan cista in 1863-64. Her photo sits in the Victoria and Albert Museum’s historic collection. The shot joins early photographs the V&A began collecting in 1852.

The museum used these images to train artists and students. Henry Cole, its first director, saw photography as a new tool for learning.

Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Overview

A photograph of a Large Etruscan Cista in bronze, taken by Louise Laffon in 1863-64, is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's historic photography collection, initiated in 1852. The image was among 500 works purchased from Laffon in 1864, facilitated by agent Monsieur E. Cappe.

Subject & Meaning

The photographed subject is an ancient Etruscan cista (a bronze container), originally part of the Campana Collection in the Musée Napoléon III (now the Louvre). The image's primary purpose was educational, aiming to provide artists and students with detailed visual references.

Technique & Style

While specific technical details of Laffon's photograph are not provided, it reflects the early photographic techniques of the 1860s. As part of a series documenting museum objects, the image likely prioritizes clarity and detail over aesthetic experimentation.

History & Provenance

Acquired by the V&A in 1864 from Louise Laffon via Monsieur E. Cappe, the photograph is part of a larger set from the Campana Collection. Laffon, a pioneering female photographer and third female member of Le Société Française de la Photographie, played a significant role in the museum's early photographic collections.

Context

The photograph is contextualized within the V&A's pioneering efforts in photography collection and exhibition, starting in 1852 under Director Henry Cole, who recognized photography's potential for educational enhancement.

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.