Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Southwell Brothers. It dates from 1865 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph depicts Miss Herbert, a Victorian-era actress, captured in a studio setting.
About this work
This photo shows Miss Herbert, a Victorian actress. The Southwell Brothers took it in 1865 using an early photographic process.
Back then, actors paid for these small “cartes de visite” to hand out and sell. Fans collected stacks of them, just like trading cards today.
Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more of these Victorian star photos.
Overview
This photograph depicts Miss Herbert, a Victorian-era actress, captured in a studio setting. The image is an example of a 'carte de visite', a small albumen print on card, popular during the mid-19th century.
Subject & Meaning
Miss Herbert, the subject, was likely promoting her theatrical career through this portrait, as was common among actors and actresses of the time, who used such photographs for self-promotion and fan engagement.
Technique & Style
Taken by the Southwell Brothers in 1865, the photograph utilizes an early photographic process, resulting in an albumen print from a glass negative, mounted on stiff card backing.
History & Provenance
Originally part of a 'carte de visite' collection, the photograph was later removed from its backing, mounted in an album, and bequeathed to the V&A by Guy Tristram Little, a collector and solicitor, as part of his extensive photographic and theatrical memorabilia collection.
Context
Produced during the heyday of 'cartes de visite' (patented in 1854, prevalent in the 1860s), this photograph reflects the Victorian public's fascination with collecting celebrity portraits, scenic views, and artworks in this novel, compact format.
Artist & collection
Artist
