Artwork
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs is a photographic photography by Window & Grove. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This 19th-century photograph, part of the *Guy Little Theatrical Photographs* series, is a carte de visite by Window & Grove, featuring a Victorian stage actor or actress, likely in theatrical costume or everyday attire.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is an unidentified performer of the Victorian era, captured for the purpose of fan collectibility, reflecting the popularity of theatrical personalities during this time.
Technique & Style
Created using the albumen print process from a glass negative, the photograph is mounted on a stiff card backing, characteristic of cartes de visite, which measured the size of formal visiting cards.
History & Provenance
Originally part of a large collection assembled by Guy Tristram Little, a collector and solicitor, the photograph was bequeathed to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) as part of Little's estate after his death in 1953.
Context
Produced during the mid-to-late 19th century, when cartes de visite (patented in 1854) and later cabinet cards were wildly popular, this photograph represents a transient yet pervasive form of Victorian celebrity culture.
Artist & collection
Artist
These photos freeze moments from late-19th-century and early-20th-century theater.
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photographs
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph
Guy Little Theatrical Photograph