Artwork

Marble bust of Rome

Marble bust of Rome, by Louise Laffon, photographic, 1864
Marble bust of Rome, by Louise Laffon, photographic, 1864

Marble bust of Rome 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

This photograph turns a marble bust into a quiet study. Louise Laffon made it in 1863–64, blending photography with Realism and Impressionism.

It’s one of the rare female-authored works the Victoria and Albert Museum collected early. Back in 1858 the museum became the first to show photographs publicly, using them as teaching tools for artists.

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Overview

This photograph, taken by Louise Laffon in 1863–64, presents a marble bust as a serene study. It is an example of the Victoria and Albert Museum's early collection of photographs, which were used for educational purposes.

Technique & Style

Laffon's work blends photography with elements of Realism and Impressionism, capturing the marble bust with a quiet, observational tone.

History & Provenance

The Victoria and Albert Museum acquired this photograph as part of a series of 500 works by Laffon in 1864, purchased through the agent Monsieur E. Cappe.

Context

The museum had begun collecting photographs in 1852 and was the first to exhibit them publicly in 1858, recognizing their potential as a resource for artists and students.

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.