Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1891 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph depicts Juliette Nesville as Miss Decima on stage at the Criterion Theatre in 1891.
About this work
This photo shows a woman in a dark dress posing on stage. She’s Juliette Nesville, playing Miss Decima in 1891.
Back then, actors paid for these small photos to hand out. They were printed on stiff card—about the size of a modern business card. People collected them like trading cards.
Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more theater photos like this one.
Overview
This photograph depicts Juliette Nesville as Miss Decima on stage at the Criterion Theatre in 1891.
Subject & Meaning
The image captures Juliette Nesville in character, wearing a dark dress and posing in a theatrical setting, reflecting her role as Miss Decima.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an example of a 'cabinet card', a format that superseded 'cartes de visite' in the late 1870s, characterized by its larger size and sturdy card backing.
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 upon his death in 1953.
Context
During the Victorian era, actors and actresses commonly had photographs taken for promotional purposes, often in costume, which were then distributed as 'cartes de visite' or 'cabinet cards'.
Artist & collection
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