Artwork
A portrait of 'Lola Montez'
A portrait of 'Lola Montez' is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1864 carte-de-visite portrait captures Elizabeth Rosanna Gilbert, known as Lola Montez, in a right-side profile.
About this work
Overview
This 1864 carte-de-visite portrait captures Elizabeth Rosanna Gilbert, known as Lola Montez, in a right-side profile. The photograph focuses on her head and shoulders, depicting her in a dark velvet dress with a white lace collar, her hair styled in an updo and expressing a serious demeanor against a plain background.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Lola Montez, was a renowned figure of her time, known for her career as an actress, dancer, and courtesan. This portrait presents her in a dignified, restrained manner, contrasting with her notoriously vibrant public persona, suggesting a deliberate presentation of respectability.
Technique & Style
The photograph, taken by the London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company, exemplifies the realistic and detailed approach characteristic of early portrait photography. The use of a plain background and natural lighting emphasizes the subject's features and attire, typical of the carte-de-visite format popular during the mid-19th century.
History & Provenance
Captured in 1864, this photograph is a late representation of Lola Montez, who passed away in 1861, indicating the image might be a posthumous print or an earlier photograph reissued. The involvement of the London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company highlights its role in popularizing such portraits.
Context
Created during the heyday of the carte-de-visite, this portrait reflects the era's fascination with collecting and displaying images of celebrities. It also underscores the evolving role of photography in capturing and disseminating the likenesses of public figures.
Legacy
As one of the surviving images of Lola Montez, this photograph contributes to the visual legacy of a figure who captivated 19th-century audiences. It remains a significant artifact for understanding both the subject's enduring image and the photographic practices of the time.
Artist & collection
Artist
London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company
They snapped portraits for London’s theater crowd in the 1800s, turning actors and dancers into instant celebrities.
