Who painted Marble bust of child?

Marble bust of child was painted by Louise Laffon in 1864.

Where can I see Marble bust of child?

Marble bust of child is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Marble bust of child?

Marble bust of child is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Marble bust of child

Louise Laffon , 1864

Marble bust of child 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

This photograph, part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, depicts a marble bust of a child, specifically a putto, a common figure in art. Created by French photographer Louise Laffon, it exemplifies her work in documenting artworks, in this case, a sculpture.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a putto (a youthful, cherubic figure), is a traditional motif in art, symbolizing innocence and beauty. Laffon's photograph preserves and presents this sculptural representation for educational and reference purposes, aligning with the V&A's mission to extend visual resources for artists and students.

Technique & Style

Characteristic of the Realism movement, Laffon's photograph prioritizes accuracy and detail in capturing the marble bust. The technique ensures a faithful reproduction of the sculpture, highlighting the textures of the marble and the expressive qualities of the putto's form.

History & Provenance

Acquired by the V&A in 1864 as part of a 500-work purchase from Laffon via agent Monsieur E. Cappe, this photograph was originally part of her series documenting the Campana Collection in Paris's Musée Napoléon III (now the Louvre). Laffon's work was integral to the museum's early photographic collections.

Context

Created during the V&A's formative years, when photography was newly recognized as a tool for education and administration, Laffon's work reflects the museum's pioneering approach to collecting and exhibiting photographs, initiated by Director Henry Cole.

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.