Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist W. & D. Downey. It dates from 1891 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph, taken by W.
About this work
This photograph is titled Guy Little Theatrical Photograph. It was taken by W. & D. Downey in February 1891.
The photograph shows Marion Hood as Joan of Arc in a theatrical production. This was a common practice at the time, as actors and actresses would have studio photographs taken in costume.
To learn more about the style of this photograph, look up the movement: Realism.
Overview
This photograph, taken by W. & D. Downey in February 1891, depicts Marion Hood as Joan of Arc in a theatrical production. It is part of a collection bequeathed to the V&A by Guy Tristram Little.
Subject & Meaning
The image shows Marion Hood in costume as Joan of Arc, a common practice among actors and actresses of the time who would have studio photographs taken in character.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an example of a 'cabinet card', a format that gained popularity in the late 1870s. It is likely an albumen print made from a glass negative, attached to a card backing, although the backing has been removed.
History & Provenance
The photograph was collected by Guy Tristram Little, a solicitor and collector, who bequeathed it to the V&A along with other 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards'.
Artist & collection
Artist
These sisters turned a London studio into a backstage pass for Victorian theater.
