Who painted Marble statue of a Naïade?

Marble statue of a Naïade was painted by Louise Laffon in 1864.

Where can I see Marble statue of a Naïade?

Marble statue of a Naïade is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Marble statue of a Naïade?

Marble statue of a Naïade is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Marble statue of a Naïade

Louise Laffon , 1864

Marble statue of a Naïade 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

A 19th-century photograph, 'Marble statue of a Naïade', is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, reflecting the institution's early adoption of photography for educational and administrative purposes.

Subject & Meaning

The photograph depicts a marble statue of a Naïade (a water nymph in Greek mythology), capturing a classical artwork for study and reference, aligning with the museum's goal of providing visual resources for artists and students.

Technique & Style

The photograph is an example of mid-19th-century photographic techniques, specifically gilded prints, used here to document sculpture, showcasing the medium's role in art reproduction.

History & Provenance

Acquired by the V&A in 1864 as part of a 500-piece purchase from Louise Laffon, a female photographer and third member of Le Société Française de la Photographie, through agent Monsieur E. Cappe, originally documenting the Campana Collection in Paris.

Context

Part of the V&A's pioneering photography collection, initiated in 1852, this work highlights the museum's visionary use of photography and the overlooked contributions of female photographers like Laffon in its early history.

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.