Who painted Marble bust of Julia Mammea?

Marble bust of Julia Mammea was painted by Louise Laffon in 1864.

Where can I see Marble bust of Julia Mammea?

Marble bust of Julia Mammea is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Marble bust of Julia Mammea?

Marble bust of Julia Mammea is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Marble bust of Julia Mammea

Louise Laffon , 1864

Marble bust of Julia Mammea 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

Back then the museum’s director, Henry Cole, wanted photos to help art students see details they couldn’t reach in person.

This is a 1863–64 photo of a marble bust of Julia Mammea. It’s by Louise Laffon, a French photographer working in the overlap of Impressionism and Realism. The Victoria and Albert Museum still holds it.

Laffon’s picture sits where the V&A first put photos on display in 1858. Back then the museum’s director, Henry Cole, wanted photos to help art students see details they couldn’t reach in person.

Take a look at Louise Laffon.

Overview

This photograph, taken by Louise Laffon in 1863–64, depicts a marble bust of Julia Mammea. It is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, where it has been held since its acquisition.

Subject & Meaning

The subject of the photograph is a marble bust, likely an ancient Roman sculpture. Julia Mammea was a historical figure, mother of the Roman Emperor Alexander Severus.

Technique & Style

Louise Laffon was a French photographer associated with the early days of photography, working at a time when the medium overlapped with the art movements of Impressionism and Realism.

History & Provenance

The V&A acquired this photograph in 1864 as part of a series of 500 works by Laffon, purchased through the agent Monsieur E. Cappe. The museum had been collecting photographs since 1852 and first exhibited them in 1858.

Context

The photograph was part of the museum's effort to make artworks more accessible to students and artists, as envisioned by its 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.