Artwork

A portrait of 'Bella Moore'

A portrait of 'Bella Moore', by London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company, photographic, 1875
A portrait of 'Bella Moore', by London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company, photographic, 1875

A portrait of 'Bella Moore' is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company. It dates from 1875 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

A carte-de-visite photograph from 1875, produced by the London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company, captures a left-profile portrait of Bella Moore, focusing on her head and shoulders.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Bella Moore, is portrayed in a formal, high-necked blouse with lace trim and a dark, textured shawl. Her hair is styled in a high, curly updo, characteristic of the era's fashion. The plain background emphasizes her facial expression and attire.

Technique & Style

The photograph exhibits technical characteristics common to early photography, with sharp central details and faded edges. This style reflects the limitations and aesthetic of 19th-century camera technology.

History & Provenance

Originally part of the Windsor Collection at Windsor Castle, the photograph's provenance is noted by Owen Morshead, Royal Librarian from 1926 to 1958.

Context

The work is contextualized within the early portrait photography practices of the London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company, a prominent studio of the time.

Artist & collection