Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company. It dates from 1878 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1878 photograph depicts Minnie Hauk in the title role of Carmen from the opera.
About this work
This photo shows Minnie Hauk in her role as Carmen from the 1878 opera. It was taken by the London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company, part of a trend where actors posed for promotional shots.
In the late 1800s, these photos were printed on cards meant for fans or collectors. The image helped people remember the play long after the show ended.
Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum next.
Overview
This 1878 photograph depicts Minnie Hauk in the title role of Carmen from the opera. It is an albumen print on glass negative, mounted on stiff card backing, characteristic of 'cartes de visite' or 'cabinet cards' popular during the Victorian era.
Subject & Meaning
The photograph captures Minnie Hauk as Carmen, promoting her theatrical portrayal. Such images served as promotional tools, allowing fans and collectors to remember performances long after they ended.
Technique & Style
The image was produced by the London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company using the albumen print process from a glass negative, adhering to the technical standards of 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards' of the time.
History & Provenance
Originally part of a collection of 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards', the photograph was removed from its backing, mounted in an album by collector Guy Tristram Little, and later bequeathed to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A).
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.
