Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Window & Grove. It dates from 1881 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This photograph depicts Marie Wilton, captured in a studio setting, likely for theatrical promotional purposes.
About this work
Overview
This photograph depicts Marie Wilton, captured in a studio setting, likely for theatrical promotional purposes. It is an albumen print on glass negative, mounted on stiff card backing, characteristic of 19th-century portrait photography.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Marie Wilton, was an actress of her time. The photograph, whether in everyday dress or theatrical costume (not specified here), served as a 'carte de visite' or 'cabinet card', intended for distribution or collection, reflecting the Victorian era's fascination with theatrical personalities.
Technique & Style
The image is an albumen print from a glass negative, a prevalent technique during the Victorian era. The style is characteristic of studio photography of the time, with formal posing and lighting typical of either 'cartes de visite' (small, visiting card size) or 'cabinet cards' (larger, more durable).
History & Provenance
Part of a large collection assembled by Guy Tristram Little, a collector and solicitor, who removed the cards from their original backings and mounted them in albums. The collection was bequeathed to the V&A upon his death in 1953.
Context
Created during the heyday of 'cartes de visite' (1854 patent, peaked in the 1860s) or possibly during the transition to 'cabinet cards' (late 1870s), this photograph reflects the Victorian public’s appetite for collecting images of celebrities, landmarks, and art.
Artist & collection
Artist
These photos freeze moments from late-19th-century and early-20th-century theater.
