Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Sarony. It dates from 1881 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This photograph depicts American actor Edwin Booth portraying Iago in a production of Othello at the Lyceum Theatre, captured during the Victorian era when photography was a burgeoning technology.
Subject & Meaning
The image showcases Edwin Booth in character as Iago, highlighting the intersection of theatrical performance and early photographic technology in capturing celebrity portraiture for public consumption.
Technique & Style
Produced as an albumen print from a glass negative, this photograph was mounted on stiff card backing, characteristic of 'cartes de visite' or possibly 'cabinet cards', reflecting mid-to-late 19th-century photographic practices.
History & Provenance
Originally part of a large collection of theatrical 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards', it was amassed by Guy Tristram Little, later bequeathed to the V&A, with connections to Mrs. Gabrielle Enthoven’s foundational theatrical collection.
Context
Created during the heyday of 'cartes de visite' (1854-1870s) or the transition to 'cabinet cards' (late 1870s), this photograph reflects Victorian-era trends in collecting theatrical and celebrity images.
Artist & collection
Artist
Napoléon Sarony was a Canadian-born American lithographer and photographer. He was a highly popular portrait photographer, best known for his portraits of the stars of late-19th-century American theater. His son, Otto…
