Senator Robert Kennedy

Artist Charmian Sproule Reading (American, 1930 - 2014)

DateMay 11, 1966

MediumGelatin silver print

DimensionsOverall, Image: 13 11/16 × 10 9/16 in. (34.8 × 26.8 cm)
Oveall, Paper: 16 11/16 × 13 1/4 in. (42.4 × 33.7 cm)
Overall, Mat: 24 × 20 in. (61 × 50.8 cm)

ClassificationsCivil Rights Movement

Credit LineMuseum purchase, in memory of Alice R. and Sol B. Frank, and with funds provided by Mr. and Mrs. Chris A. Crumley

Object number97.31

Terms

Civil Rights
Robert Kennedy
Black
White

On View

Not on view

DescriptionTwo dark silhouette images on left and right sides and Senator Robert Kennedy is in the middle. The dark image on the right is wearing glasses and one can see the reflection of Senator Kennedy crisp and clear.

Label TextCharmian Sproule Reading American, 1930−2014 Senator Robert Kennedy, May 11, 1966 Gelatin silver print (photograph) As Attorney General and then U.S. Senator from New York, Robert F. Kennedy was a pivotal figure in 1960s politics. Though supportive of equal rights for African Americans, he frequently faced criticism for failing to act quickly and decisively to the demands of Civil Rights leaders. Framing Kennedy with black silhouettes, this image by freelance photographer Charmian Reading suggests the obstacles, confusions, and tensions plaguing negotiations between politicians and activists in this era. Museum purchase, in memory of Alice R. and Sol B. Frank, and with funds provided by Mr. and Mrs. Chris A. Crumley 97.31