Cow Skull on Wall, New Mexico
Artist
W. Eugene Smith
(1918-1978)
CultureAmerican
Date1947
MediumGelatin silver print
DimensionsOverall, Image: 11 1/8 × 9 3/8 in. (28.3 × 23.8 cm)
Overall, Paper: 12 5/16 × 11 in. (31.3 × 27.9 cm)
Overall, Paper: 12 5/16 × 11 in. (31.3 × 27.9 cm)
InscribedArtist stamps and various notations on verso. J/NE-003
Credit LineGift of Patti Cohen and Eddie Sutton
Object number2005.33.7
Not on view
DescriptionThis is a gelatin silver print of a cow skull hanging on a wall in New Mexico.Label TextW. Eugene Smith American, 1918–1978 Cow Skull on Wall, New Mexico, 1947 Gelatin silver print (photograph) Georgia O’Keeffe’s paintings of the American Southwest created a distinct visual identity for this region as a mysterious world of sand dunes, tumbleweeds, rocky canyons, and the parched, white bones of dead animals. Inspired by the popularity of these works, LIFE magazine sent photographer W. Eugene Smith to New Mexico in 1947 to produce a photo-essay about the ranches near Taos and Abiquiu where O’Keeffe lived. In this image of a cow skull hung as domestic décor, heavy shadows recall the strong geometric forms that give structure to many of O’Keeffe’s works. Chrysler Museum, Gift of Patti Cohen and Eddie Sutton 2005.33.7 ProvenancePatti Cohen and Eddie Sutton, New York, NY [through photography collector Michael Mattis]; Chrysler Museum of Art, Norfolk, VA, Gift of Patti Cohen and Eddie Sutton, 2005. Exhibition History"Collection Conversations: Georgia O'Keeffe: A Place of Her Own," Chrysler Museum of Art, Norfolk, VA, October 21, 2015 - January 3, 2016.
W. Eugene Smith
