Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by Warren. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This black-and-white photograph depicts Charlotte Cushman, a renowned actress of the late 19th century, in a studio setting.
About this work
Overview
This black-and-white photograph depicts Charlotte Cushman, a renowned actress of the late 19th century, in a studio setting. The image is an example of a theatrical portrait from the Victorian era.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Charlotte Cushman, was a celebrated actress. The photograph, not taken on stage but in a studio, reflects the Victorian practice of actors posing for formal, off-stage portraits to be distributed as 'cartes de visite' or 'cabinet cards'.
Technique & Style
The photograph is an albumen print, a common technique of the time, made from a glass negative and mounted on stiff card backing. The studio setting and formal pose are characteristic of Victorian theatrical portraiture.
History & Provenance
The photograph is part of a large collection assembled by Guy Tristram Little, a collector and solicitor, who bequeathed it to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A). It was originally part of a set of 'cartes de visite' or 'cabinet cards' removed from their backs and mounted in albums.
Context
Produced during the heyday of 'cartes de visite' (patented in 1854, popular in the 1860s) or possibly the later 'cabinet card' era (late 1870s), the photograph reflects the Victorian fascination with photography as a novel medium for capturing and collecting images of celebrities.
Artist & collection
Artist
Warren was a theater photographer who stalked backstage with a tripod instead of a script.
