Basket Maker
Artist
Edward S. Curtis
(American, 1868 - 1952)
Engraver
John Andrew & Son
(American (founded 1869))
Datecopyright 1912
Mediumphotogravure on paper
Dimensions18 × 22 1/2 inches (45.7 × 57.2 cm)
Other (Plate): 13 1/2 × 16 5/8 inches (34.3 × 42.3 cm)
Other (Plate): 13 1/2 × 16 5/8 inches (34.3 × 42.3 cm)
Credit LinePurchase of the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation, 2013
Object number2013.2.9.19
ClassificationsPhotographs
DescriptionInterior of mat house with woman weaving baskets.Label TextAbout 1910 Curtis began to make a stylistic change. He made fewer pictorialist works. In photos such as “Basket Maker”, he used a sharper focus. Modern abstracted art influenced his approach. He placed a strong emphasis on surface elements. In this work, the mat walls form a background. They create a shallow space and a liner pattern. Curtis made use of geometric elements such as triangular shapes. The photographer wanted his works to preserve history. He also wanted them to be perceived as works of art with a modern approach.
ProvenanceAcquired by subscription directly from the artist by the National Geographic Society, Washington, D.C.[1]; purchased December 6, 2012 through (Christies, New York, New York,[2]) by (Arader Galleries, New York, New York); purchased June 10, 2013 through (Arader Galleries, New York, New York) by the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation; accessioned to the Stark Museum of Art | [1] This set was stored in the National Geographic Society’s archive housed in the Society’s Washington, D.C. headquarters. | [2] "The National Geographic Collection: The Art of Exploration," December 6, 2012, Christie’s, New York, Rockefeller Plaza, sale 2603, lot 65
On View
Not on view
