Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist W. & D. Downey. It dates from 1885 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1885 photograph depicts Mary Anderson as Julia in a production of The Hunchback.
About this work
Photography was new and exciting back then, and actors had photos taken for special cards.
This photograph is from 1885.
It shows Mary Anderson as Julia in The Hunchback.
Photography was new and exciting back then, and actors had photos taken for special cards.
These cards, called 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards', were popular collectibles. They had various subjects, including portraits and scenic views.
The cards were made from glass negatives and printed with the photographer's name.
You can learn more about this type of photography by looking into the work of W. & D. Downey.
Overview
This 1885 photograph depicts Mary Anderson as Julia in a production of The Hunchback. It is part of a collection of theatrical photographs.
Subject & Meaning
The image captures Mary Anderson in character as Julia, a role in a theatrical performance of The Hunchback, likely at the Lyceum Theatre.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an example of a 'cabinet card', a format that emerged as a successor to the 'carte de visite'. Both were produced using albumen prints from glass negatives and were mounted on card with the photographer's details.
History & Provenance
The photograph was collected by Guy Tristram Little, a solicitor and collector, who bequeathed it along with other 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards' to the V&A.
Context
During the Victorian era, photography was a rapidly evolving medium, with 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards' becoming popular collectibles among the public.
Artist & collection
Artist
These sisters turned a London studio into a backstage pass for Victorian theater.
