Standing Man in Coveralls, Striped Background
Artist
Mike Disfarmer
(American, 1884 - 1959)
CultureAmerican
Dateca. 1940
MediumGelatin silver contact print
Dimensions5 × 3 in. (12.7 × 7.6 cm)
Credit LineGift of Michael P. Mattis and Judith Hochberg
Object number2022.22.3
Not on view
DescriptionThis is a portrait orientation photograph with a white border featuring a man in overalls against a striped background. The subject leans slightly to his left.Label TextMike Disfarmer American, 1884–1959 Standing Man in Coveralls, Striped Background, ca. 1940 Gelatin silver contact print Gift of Michael P. Mattis and Judith Hochberg 2022.22.3 Mike Disfarmer was born Mike Meyer. Believing incorrectly that “Meyer” meant “farmer” in German, he changed his last name upon taking up photography as his career to disassociate himself from the family’s farming business. His unconventional attitude alienated him from the inhabitants of his rural town, though he was still engaged for portraits from tradespeople, servicemen, families, and young lovers. It is ironic that Disfarmer, who made such an effort to distinguish himself from agricultural trade, captured so many farmers, such as the two men in these photographs. ProvenanceMichael Mattis to CMAExhibition History"Facing Ourselves: Mike Disfarmer and the American Portrait," Chrysler Museum of Art, Norfolk, VA, December 16, 2022 - May 14, 2023.
