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Artwork

Portfolio I, Plate 32: A Son of the Desert - Navaho

Edward S. Curtis , 1904

Portfolio I, Plate 32: A Son of the Desert - Navaho, by Edward S. Curtis, 1904
Portfolio I, Plate 32: A Son of the Desert - Navaho, by Edward S. Curtis, 1904

Portfolio I, Plate 32: A Son of the Desert - Navaho is a work on paper by Edward S. Curtis. It dates from 1904 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.
1995.203.21.32
Credit line
Presented by Mrs. James H. Hoyt, Elton Hoyt, II, and Mrs. Amasa Stone Mather in memory of James H. Hoyt

About this work

Overview

Portfolio I, Plate 32: A Son of the Desert - Navaho is a black-and-white portrait photograph by Edward S. Curtis, created in 1904.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts a young Navaho individual wearing a wrapped headcloth, with the title providing the sole contextual clue to their identity and cultural background.

Technique & Style

The use of chiaroscuro, a strong contrast between light and dark, emphasizes the subject's face, drawing the viewer's attention to their features while leaving the background unadorned and dark.

History & Provenance

The photograph is part of a portfolio by Curtis and is held in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Edward S. Curtis

Edward S. Curtis (1868–1952) was an American artist.

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Portfolio I, Plate 32: A Son of the Desert - Navaho?

Portfolio I, Plate 32: A Son of the Desert - Navaho was painted by Edward S. Curtis in 1904.

Where can I see Portfolio I, Plate 32: A Son of the Desert - Navaho?

Portfolio I, Plate 32: A Son of the Desert - Navaho is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.