Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Henry Frederick Van Der Weyde. It dates from 1883 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This photograph, taken by Henry Frederick Van Der Weyde, is part of a collection bequeathed to the V&A by Guy Tristram Little. It features Mrs. Langtry, a notable figure of the time.
Subject & Meaning
The image depicts Mrs. Langtry, an actress. During the Victorian era, actors and actresses commonly had studio photographs taken, often in costume or everyday attire, for distribution as 'cartes de visite' or 'cabinet cards'.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an example of the 'cartes de visite' or 'cabinet cards' format, which were albumen prints made from glass negatives and mounted on card. Van Der Weyde's work reflects the photographic practices of the late 19th century.
History & Provenance
The photograph was collected by Guy Tristram Little, a solicitor and collector, who removed it from its original backing and mounted it in an album. Little bequeathed his collection to the V&A in 1953.
Artist & collection
Artist
Henry Frederick Van Der Weyde kept a studio on London’s Strand that looked more like a backstage dressing room than a photographer’s space.
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs