Picture without a/an

Picture without a/an
 

p.44 The picture gave no clear impression of anyone in particular; it was generic Victorian lady, specific shy poetess.

There's no a/an before Victorian; is it because we are talking about a photo, and a photo can't be equal to a lady?

No, that's not the reason. In American English a generic Victorian ... is the correct usage. British English is more likely to leave out articles especially when it comes to nonspecific things like in hospital instead of the moere American in the hospital. In British English, the would only be used in a specific hospital like in the Queens Royal Hospital... not so in American English. I think you quote is British and describing a nonspecific thing.

Excellent answer. Thank you.