Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Walery. It dates from 1885 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1885 photograph depicts Marie Roze in character as Manon, captured for theatrical promotional purposes.
About this work
This photograph is from 1885.
It shows Marie Roze as Manon.
The photo was used for 'cartes de visite' or 'cabinet cards', which were popular collectibles.
These cards had albumen prints made from glass negatives.
People collected them to remember their favorite actors and actresses.
You can learn more about this type of photography by looking at the work of Walery.
Overview
This 1885 photograph depicts Marie Roze in character as Manon, captured for theatrical promotional purposes. It exemplifies the popular Victorian-era collectible formats, 'cartes de visite' or 'cabinet cards'.
Subject & Meaning
The image features Marie Roze as Manon, highlighting the intersection of photography and theater in late 19th-century popular culture, where such portraits allowed fans to connect with performers.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an albumen print from a glass negative, mounted on stiff card backing, characteristic of 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards' produced during this period.
History & Provenance
Part of Guy Tristram Little's extensive collection, this photograph was later bequeathed to the V&A, originally mounted in albums alongside other theatrical 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards'.
Context
Created during the heyday of 'cartes de visite' (patented 1854, popular 1860s) and the rise of 'cabinet cards' (late 1870s), it reflects Victorian collecting trends and the burgeoning theatrical photography market.
Legacy
While the format of 'cartes de visite' and 'cabinet cards' was eventually supplanted by postcards and studio portraits by the 1890s, this photograph remains a testament to the era's theatrical and photographic practices.
Artist & collection
Artist
These black-and-white photographs preserve the gestures and costumes of 19th-century actors.
