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 1884 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1884 photograph depicts Fanny Leslie as Simon in the theatrical production The Beggar Student.
About this work
This photograph is from 1884.
It's a picture of Fanny Leslie as Simon in The Beggar Student. Photography was new and exciting back then, and actors often had photos taken in costume or everyday dress for special cards called 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards'.
Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to learn more about this kind of photography.
Overview
This 1884 photograph depicts Fanny Leslie as Simon in the theatrical production The Beggar Student.
Subject & Meaning
The image captures Fanny Leslie in character, reflecting the practice of Victorian-era actors having studio photographs taken in costume or everyday attire.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an example of a 'cabinet card', a type of albumen print mounted on card, a common format for portrait photography during the late 19th century.
History & Provenance
The photograph was part of a collection assembled by Guy Tristram Little, a collector and solicitor who bequeathed it to the V&A upon his death in 1953.
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.
