Who painted Marble Bust of the Emperor Nero when a child?

Marble Bust of the Emperor Nero when a child was painted by Louise Laffon in 1864.

Where can I see Marble Bust of the Emperor Nero when a child?

Marble Bust of the Emperor Nero when a child is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Marble Bust of the Emperor Nero when a child?

Marble Bust of the Emperor Nero when a child is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Marble Bust of the Emperor Nero when a child

Louise Laffon , 1864

Marble Bust of the Emperor Nero when a 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

This photograph shows a marble bust of the emperor Nero as a child. It’s rendered as a putto, a classic cherubic figure. The artist Louise Laffon took the shot between 1863 and 1864.

It’s a rare early photo where a sculpture becomes a playful child. The work sits inside the Victoria and Albert Museum’s historic photography collection.

Look up the artist Louise Laffon next.

Overview

This photograph, taken by Louise Laffon between 1863 and 1864, depicts a marble bust of the Roman Emperor Nero as a child. The image is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's historic photography collection.

Subject & Meaning

The marble bust portrays Nero as a putto, a cherubic figure, emphasizing his youth. This representation is unusual for its playful interpretation of a historical figure.

Technique & Style

Laffon's photograph showcases her skill in capturing sculptural works. The image highlights the texture and detail of the marble bust, demonstrating the potential of photography to document and interpret three-dimensional art.

History & Provenance

The Victoria and Albert Museum acquired this photograph as part of a series of 500 works by Laffon, purchased in 1864 through the agent Monsieur E. Cappe. The museum was an early adopter of photography, collecting and exhibiting photographs from its inception.

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.