Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph depicts Adah Isaacs Menken as Mazeppa in a theatrical performance.
About this work
She rides a fake horse in a dramatic, low-cut costume meant to shock the audience.
This photo shows Adah Isaacs Menken posing as Mazeppa on stage in 1864. She rides a fake horse in a dramatic, low-cut costume meant to shock the audience. The outfit shows off her legs, which was rare for women on stage then.
The photo was taken by Guy Little, a popular photographer who sold souvenir cards. These small prints cost little but let fans remember their favorite actors. People collected them like today’s trading cards.
Look for more photos of Menken at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Overview
This photograph depicts Adah Isaacs Menken as Mazeppa in a theatrical performance. It is an example of a 'carte de visite', a type of photograph mounted on card, popular during the Victorian era.
Subject & Meaning
Menken poses on a fake horse, wearing a revealing costume intended to shock the audience. The image captures her dramatic performance, highlighting her legs, a rare sight on stage at the time.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an albumen print from a glass negative, attached to a card backing. This format was typical for 'cartes de visite', which were mass-produced and collected by fans as souvenirs.
History & Provenance
The photograph was part of a collection assembled by Guy Tristram Little, a solicitor and collector, who bequeathed it to the V&A. Little's collection included various types of photographs, as well as other ephemera like greetings cards and games.
Artist & collection
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