Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a photographic photography by Edith Willumsen. It is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This untitled black-and-white photograph, mounted on green card, depicts a detailed sculpture of a nude putto (mythological child) seated on a table, draped with a dark cloth, against a plain background.
Subject & Meaning
The sculpture's subject, a putto, is a common figure in art, often symbolizing innocence or youthful vitality. The putto's pose, with one hand on its chest and the other holding its foot, may suggest contemplation or self-reflection.
Technique & Style
The photograph showcases strong lighting, creating shadows that enhance the sculpture's three-dimensionality. The level of detail captured, including wrinkles in the cloth and skin texture, highlights the photographic technique's ability to accentuate the sculptural qualities.
History & Provenance
Acquired as part of a collection bequeathed by William Kineton Parkes in 1938, this photograph was gathered in the 1920s through a project where Parkes distributed questionnaires to sculptors, with responses archived in the Archive of Art and Design.
Context
Part of a broader collection focused on sculpture, this photograph reflects early 20th-century interests in documenting and studying artistic works through direct engagement with creators.
Artist & collection
Artist
Edith Willumsen carried a tiny camera everywhere, snapping black-and-white street scenes like a shy spy.
