Accession Number2004/2.11.5
TitleIn the Cotton Field
Artist(s)David LevinthalArtist NationalityAmerican (North American)Object Creation Date1999Medium & Supportphotogravure on paperDimensions 17 11/16 in x 20 7/8 in (44.93 cm x 53.02 cm)
Credit LineMuseum purchase made possible by the Margaret Watson Parker Art Collection FundSubject matterThis photograph is on in a series of eight photogravures by David Levinthal, published in an edition of 25 by Landfall Press. This series employs tin toy figurines to illustrate moments from Harriet Beecher Stowe's landmark 1852 novel,
Uncle Tom's Cabin. The series shares the same name. Levinthal is known for addressing controversial subjects in his tableaux, questioning conventions of straight photography, using recycled imagery and recycled toy objects. In this series, he uses a shallow depth of field, dramatic shadows and chiaroscuro in order to address the darker themes of
Uncle Tom's Cabin.
Physical DescriptionA photograph of a tin figure in a shallow plane, set against a black backdrop. Large plants surround the male figure. He holds a large basket on his shoulder, above his head, carrying it and leaning forward, illustrating the burden of the large load.
Primary Object ClassificationPhotographCollection AreaPhotographyRightsIf you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit
http://umma.umich.edu/request-image for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.
Keywords
antebellum
figurines
novels
slavery
tableaux (sculpture)
toys (recreational artifacts)