Artwork

Portfolio IX, Plate 313: The Mussel Gatherer

Portfolio IX, Plate 313: The Mussel Gatherer, by Edward S. Curtis, 1900
Portfolio IX, Plate 313: The Mussel Gatherer, by Edward S. Curtis, 1900

Portfolio IX, Plate 313: The Mussel Gatherer is a work on paper by Edward S. Curtis. It dates from 1900 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Portfolio IX, Plate 313: The Mussel Gatherer is a photographic work by Edward S. Curtis, created in 1900, and is part of a larger portfolio. It is currently held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts a person gathering mussels by a lake's edge, suggesting a documentation of everyday life and work. The title implies an emphasis on the activity rather than a formal portrait.

Technique & Style

The photograph is characterized by a grainy, sepia tone, which gives it a nostalgic and timeless quality. The use of this tone and the composition of the image contribute to its documentary feel.

Artist & collection

Artist

Edward S. Curtis

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

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.