Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by Tourtain. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This 19th-century photograph by Tourtain depicts Mlle Baretta, an actress of the time.
Subject & Meaning
The image is a portrait of Mlle Baretta, likely taken to promote her theatrical career, as was common practice among Victorian-era actors and actresses.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an example of a 'carte de visite', a type of albumen print mounted on card, a popular format for portrait photography during the Victorian era.
History & Provenance
The photograph was part of a collection assembled by Guy Tristram Little, a collector and solicitor who bequeathed it to the V&A, along with other 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards'.
Artist & collection
Artist
Tourtain made early photographs of stage performers in the 19th century. Their only known surviving work here is *Guy Little Theatrical Photograph*, a studio portrait of actors caught mid-character. These photos freeze…
