Who painted Second Series?

Second Series was painted by Louise Laffon in 1864.

Where can I see Second Series?

Second Series is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Second Series?

Second Series is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Second Series

Louise Laffon , 1864

Second Series 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 is a photograph from 1863–64 by Louise Laffon. Part of the "Second Series," it comes from a time when the Victoria and Albert Museum was one of the first to collect and show photos.

The museum bought photos early to help artists and students study. Laffon’s work was overlooked for years before being rediscovered.

Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Overview

This 1863–64 photograph is part of Louise Laffon's 'Second Series', acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum during its pioneering era of photography collection and exhibition.

Subject & Meaning

The photograph depicts an object from the Campana Collection, originally housed in the Musée Napoléon III in Paris (now the Louvre), serving as a visual resource for artistic and educational purposes.

Technique & Style

Created using the gil (gilded) process, a photographic technique of the time, Laffon's work in this series showcases her contribution to early photographic documentation of art collections.

History & Provenance

Purchased by the V&A in 1864 through agent Monsieur E. Cappe, this photograph is one of 500 works from Laffon's series, highlighting her professional engagement with the museum and its global sourcing practices.

Context

Reflecting the V&A's visionary approach under Director Henry Cole, the photograph exemplifies the museum's early recognition of photography's potential in education and artistic resource provision, including the overlooked yet significant role of female photographers like Laffon.

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.