Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Henry Mullins. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph depicts Adah Isaacs Menken in her role as Mazeppa at Astley's Theatre, captured in October 1864.
About this work
This photograph is from October 1864.
It shows Adah Isaacs Menken as Mazeppa.
The photograph was made for a 'carte de visite', a type of small photo card that was popular at the time.
People collected these cards, which often featured actors and actresses in costume.
Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to learn more about this type of photography.
Overview
This photograph depicts Adah Isaacs Menken in her role as Mazeppa at Astley's Theatre, captured in October 1864. It was originally produced as a 'carte de visite', a small, collectible photo card popular during the Victorian era.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Adah Isaacs Menken, is portrayed in character as Mazeppa, highlighting the intersection of theatrical culture and the emerging technology of photography in capturing performer images for public consumption.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an albumen print from a glass negative, mounted on stiff card backing, characteristic of 'cartes de visite' production. Its small size and format reflect its intended use as a collectible portrait card.
History & Provenance
Part of a large collection assembled by Guy Tristram Little, this photograph was later bequeathed to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) as part of Little's estate. Originally detached from its backing, it was mounted in an album alongside other theatrical 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards'.
Context
Created during the peak of 'cartes de visite' popularity (1854-1870s), this photograph represents a common practice among Victorian actors to have their images, both in and out of character, distributed widely among the public.
Legacy
Now housed at the V&A, this photograph contributes to the museum's Theatre Collections, initially founded on the theatrical collection of Mrs. Gabrielle Enthoven, for which Guy Little served as solicitor and executor.
Artist & collection
Artist
Henry Mullins made a single surviving photograph in October 1864: Guy Little Theatrical Photograph, a formal portrait of a performer in costume.
