Clarence White (recto); Unidentified Figure (verso)

Marius de Zayas

ca. 1908–9 · Recto: Charcoal on paper Verso: Graphite on paper · Modern and Contemporary Art

White's photographic work came to Stieglitz's attention in 1898, and their artistic affiliation, first at the Camera Club of New York and later as part of the Photo-Secession movement and 291 gallery (where they collaborated on a series of experimental portraits in 1907), lasted until about 1912. De Zayas's humorous portrayals of White, including this full-length charcoal and a watercolor and ink bust also in the show, play up the elasticity of his sad-sack face. Here, the photographer's illuminated head and hands lead our eye through the darkness to the camera, tripod, and long black cloth that he is about to pull over his head.

Artist

Marius de Zayas

Date

ca. 1908–9

Medium

Recto: Charcoal on paper Verso: Graphite on paper

Department

Modern and Contemporary Art

Credit line

Alfred Stieglitz Collection, 1949