Guy Little Theatrical Photograph

The image captures Forbes-Robertson in character, reflecting the late 19th-century theatrical practice of actors posing in costume for promotional photographs, which were popular among collectors.

The photograph is an albumen print from a glass negative, mounted on stiff card backing, characteristic of 'cabinet cards' that succeeded 'cartes de visite' in popularity during the late 19th century.

Originally part of a large collection of theatrical 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards', it was amassed by Guy Tristram Little, a collector and solicitor, who bequeathed the collection to the V&A upon his death in 1953.

Taken during a live performance at the Lyric Theatre, this photograph exemplifies the intersection of emerging photographic technology with Victorian theatrical culture, catering to the public's desire for actor portraits.

As part of the V&A's Theatre Collections, founded partly through Mrs. Gabrielle Enthoven's theatrical collection (for whom Little was executor), the photograph contributes to the historical record of early 20th-century theatre and photographic practices.