Artwork

Portfolio IX, Plate 320: Lummi Type

Portfolio IX, Plate 320: Lummi Type, by Edward S. Curtis, 1899
Portfolio IX, Plate 320: Lummi Type, by Edward S. Curtis, 1899

Portfolio IX, Plate 320: Lummi Type is a work on paper by the Impressionist artist Edward S. Curtis. It dates from 1899 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Portfolio IX, Plate 320: Lummi Type is a black-and-white photographic portrait by Edward S. Curtis, dated to 1899, currently part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts a person of Lummi descent with understated yet dignified presence, characterized by a calm and serious expression. Adornments include a fur collar and beaded necklace, highlighting cultural attire.

Technique & Style

Curtis employed simple, soft lighting to emphasize the subject's facial features, set against a dark, nondescript background, utilizing a contrast reminiscent of chiaroscuro to create depth and focus.

History & Provenance

Created in 1899 as part of Curtis's extensive documentary project on Indigenous peoples, the photograph is now housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

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.