Wilde, Oscar. (1854–1900)

Signed Cabinet Photograph

An extremely rare signed cabinet photograph from the important poet and cultural figure, ca. 1890. Photographed by W. & D. Downey of London. Wilde is shown at about age 40 in a vignette bust portrait, wearing a suit and boutonniere, and has signed boldly across the card. Some light spots to the image and a few ink smudges at the head, but a crisp signature and overall in very fine condition. 4.25 x 6.5 inches (10.8 x 16.5 cm.)

W. & D. Downey were the creators of one of the most important photographic studies of the Victorian era, active from 1860 to 1910. We are aware of another, very similar, photograph of Wilde by Downey, showing the writer seated in a chair; however, we have not seen this specimen before. The manufacturer of the card, Marion & Co., was active in London from 1863 to 1898. It became the most prestigious producer of cabinet cards. The date of the cabinet card is derived from the printer format at the verso foot (See: Marion - Victorian Photograph Card Printers by Roger Vaughan, in http://www.cartes.freeuk.com/dated/mip.htm) (15263)
Signed Photograph
Literature & Classics