Artwork
Jacob Epstein
Jacob Epstein is a photographic photography by Emil Otto Hoppé. It dates from 1912 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
The statue is missing its head and arms, but you can see the smooth curves of its draped cloth and one raised leg.
This black-and-white photo shows a man standing in front of a large stone statue. The statue is missing its head and arms, but you can see the smooth curves of its draped cloth and one raised leg. The man wears a collared shirt and stands with his hands clasped, looking straight at the camera.
The photo was taken around 1912, and the man is Jacob Epstein, a sculptor. Notice how the lighting in the photo highlights the statue’s textures while keeping the background simple.
Look up Hoppé, Emil Otto to see more of his work.
Overview
A 1912 black-and-white photograph by Emil Otto Hoppé shows sculptor Jacob Epstein standing before a large stone statue.
Subject & Meaning
The statue, missing its head and arms, is juxtaposed with Epstein, who gazes directly at the camera with his hands clasped. The contrast between the incomplete statue and the fully present Epstein may highlight the sculptor's work with fragmented forms.
Technique & Style
Hoppé's use of lighting emphasizes the textures of the statue, while a simple background ensures the viewer's focus remains on Epstein and the sculpture.
Artist & collection
Artist
Emil Otto Hoppé built a career behind the camera in the early 20th century, making crisp portraits of artists and institutions.
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