Artwork
Vernacular photograph
Vernacular photograph is a photographic photography by Unknown. It dates from 1900 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This black-and-white photograph is part of a collection of snapshot photographs gathered by American collector Peter Cohen.
About this work
Overview
This black-and-white photograph is part of a collection of snapshot photographs gathered by American collector Peter Cohen.
Subject & Meaning
The image captures a hand holding a child's toy airplane in front of a bright window, with the toy's shadow cast across the frame, creating an abstract, elongated shape.
Technique & Style
The photograph's informal, unposed quality and use of available light give it a spontaneous, uncontrived appearance, blurring the line between amateur snapshot and artistic image.
History & Provenance
The photograph was sourced from a flea market or auction and is part of Cohen's 'Shadows' category, assembled in the 1990s.
Artist & collection
Domestic Scene
Giacomo and Cardinal Marco, investing Andrea, Abbot of San Zeno, with his Benefice
The Nymph of Fontainebleau
Portrait of a Woman
Madonna and Child with Saints in the Enclosed Garden
Venus and Minerva
Family Group of Four on Sofa
Wall painting from Room H of the Villa of P. Fannius Synistor at Boscoreale
