Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Reutlinger Studio. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
This photo from 1864 shows stage star Adah Isaacs Menken in her role as Mazeppa.
This photo from 1864 shows stage star Adah Isaacs Menken in her role as Mazeppa. The Reutlinger Studio captured her on stage at Astley’s Theatre, London. It’s an albumen print on card—common for actors to sell to fans.
These photos popped up when photography was still new. Stage stars like Menken posed in costumes to make keepsakes.
Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum for more theater history.
Overview
This 1864 photograph depicts Adah Isaacs Menken in her theatrical role as Mazeppa at Astley's Theatre, London, captured by the Reutlinger Studio. It is an albumen print on card, a common format for actor portraits during the early days of photography.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Adah Isaacs Menken, was a stage star of the Victorian era. As Mazeppa, she embodies a character from a popular theatrical production, reflecting the intersection of photography and theater in capturing iconic stage personas for public consumption.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an albumen print, a prevalent technique at the time, produced from a glass negative and mounted on stiff card backing. This format was standard for 'cartes de visite' and later 'cabinet cards', designed for portability and collection.
History & Provenance
Originally part of a 'cartes de visite' collection, this photograph was later removed from its backing and mounted in an album by Guy Tristram Little. Upon his death in 1953, the collection was bequeathed to the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Context
Created during the 1860s, a period when photography was novel and rapidly gaining popularity, this image catered to the public's desire for theatrical souvenirs. It represents the brief yet significant era of 'cartes de visite' before the rise of 'cabinet cards' and postcards.
Artist & collection
Artist
This studio took photos of actors backstage in the 1800s. Their collection shows five theatrical portraits from the 1860s to 1900, all labeled Guy Little Theatrical Photograph. You’ll find the 1874 portrait, a clear…
