Vertumness statuette in marble

The image captures a marble statuette of Vertumnus, a Roman god of abundance, highlighting the museum's focus on documenting artworks for study and inspiration.

Shot by Louise Laffon, the photograph exemplifies early photographic techniques used for reproductive purposes, characterized by clear, detailed documentation of the subject.

Acquired by the V&A in 1864 as part of a 500-work purchase from Laffon, via agent Monsieur E. Cappe, the photograph is one of the few acknowledged works by a female photographer in the museum's early collection.

Created during the emergence of photography in museums, this work reflects the V&A's innovative use of photography to extend visual resources for artists and students, predating the Impressionist movement's later emphasis on light and capture.

As part of the V&A's foundational photography collection, it underscores the museum's role in validating photography's educational value and highlights the overlooked contributions of early female photographers like Laffon.