Artwork

Marble Statue of Julius Caesar

Marble Statue of Julius Caesar, by Louise Laffon, photographic, 1864
Marble Statue of Julius Caesar, by Louise Laffon, photographic, 1864

Marble Statue of Julius Caesar 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

Louise Laffon took a photograph of a marble statue of Julius Caesar between 1863 and 1864. The image fits in with Impressionism and Realism. It’s a black-and-white photo.

The Victoria and Albert Museum started collecting photos in 1852. Its founder saw photography as a way to help artists and students. Laffon’s work was overlooked for years.

Look up the artist.

Overview

This black-and-white photograph by Louise Laffon depicts a marble statue of Julius Caesar. It was taken between 1863 and 1864 and later acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Technique & Style

The photograph aligns with the styles of Impressionism and Realism, capturing the statue with a focus on detail and representation.

History & Provenance

Laffon was part of Le Société Française de la Photographie and produced a series of photographs of objects from the Campana Collection. The V&A purchased 500 of her works in 1864 through Monsieur E. Cappe.

Context

The V&A, founded with a vision to support artists and students, began collecting photographs in 1852 under its director Henry Cole, recognizing photography's potential as a resource.

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.