Artwork
Venus standing on a ball surrounded by Ambrini, two figures of Victory and two griffins, bas-relief in coloured stucco
Venus standing on a ball surrounded by Ambrini, two figures of Victory and two griffins, bas-relief in coloured stucco 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
It shows a relief sculpture of Venus on a ball, surrounded by Victory figures, griffins, and Ambrini.
This is a photograph from 1863–64. It shows a relief sculpture of Venus on a ball, surrounded by Victory figures, griffins, and Ambrini. The piece mixes classical themes with new photographic methods.
The Victoria and Albert Museum started collecting photographs in 1852. They used them to help artists and students study form and detail. This work by Louise Laffon was overlooked for years.
If you like this blend of old stories and early photography, look up the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Overview
This 1863–64 photograph by Louise Laffon captures a coloured stucco bas-relief sculpture depicting Venus on a ball, surrounded by figures and mythological creatures.
Subject & Meaning
The relief sculpture combines classical themes, featuring Venus, Victory figures, and griffins, with the innovative medium of photography.
History & Provenance
The Victoria and Albert Museum, which began collecting photographs in 1852, acquired this work as part of a series of 500 photographs by Laffon in 1864, purchased through the agent Monsieur E. Cappe.
Context
The V&A's early adoption of photography reflected its mission to provide artists and students with visual resources, a goal supported by female photographers like Laffon, who was a member of Le Société Française de la Photographie.
Artist & collection
Artist
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.
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