Artwork

Marble herma with the head of Baccus ornamented with vine leaves and fruit

Marble herma with the head of Baccus ornamented with vine leaves and fruit 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. This photograph depicts a marble herma of Bacchus adorned with vine leaves and fruit.

About this work

Louise Laffon shot it during the early days of Impressionism and Realism.

This photo shows a marble bust of Baccus wearing vine leaves and fruit. It’s a photograph made between 1863 and 1864. Louise Laffon shot it during the early days of Impressionism and Realism.

The Victoria and Albert Museum started collecting photos in 1852. Its founder wanted artists and students to use them as visual references. This image was meant to help people study sculptural details.

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Overview

This photograph depicts a marble herma of Bacchus adorned with vine leaves and fruit. Created between 1863 and 1864 by Louise Laffon, it exemplifies early photographic documentation of sculptural works.

Subject & Meaning

The image captures a marble bust of Bacchus, the Roman god of wine and fertility, ornamented with vine leaves and fruit, symbolizing abundance and revelry.

Technique & Style

Produced during a period marked by the emergence of Impressionism and Realism, Laffon's photograph showcases her skill in capturing the intricate details of the marble sculpture.

History & Provenance

The Victoria and Albert Museum acquired this photograph in 1864 as part of a series of 500 works by Laffon, purchased through the agent Monsieur E. Cappe, highlighting the museum's early recognition of photography's educational value.

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.