Lillian Bassman

Bassman/Himmel Studio

American, 1917 - 2012

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The image shows a woman in a three-quarters view, with her upper body prominently displayed. She is captured in a side profile with her head tilted slightly upwards. Her facial features suggest a serene expression, and her dark hair is styled in soft curls around her face. The woman is wearing a strapless gown that is ornately decorated with shimmering embellishments on the bodice and a voluminous skirt made of layers of soft, sheer fabric. She is adorned with a statement piece of jewelry — a large bracelet composed of multiple strands of pearls or faux pearls around her wrist, complemented by a set of matching earrings and rings on her fingers. In the background, a man in a suit and bow tie can be seen, attentively engaged with the grand piano. The scene is set in an elegant, softly lit room.
Lillian Bassman, Untitled, 1952, gelatin silver print, Alfred H. Moses and Fern M. Schad Fund, 2020.1.2

Untitled

Lillian Bassman · 1952 · gelatin silver print ·  Accession ID  2020.1.2

The image shows a profile of a woman from her shoulders up. She has smooth skin and styled hair that is partially covered by a wide-brimmed hat. The hat has a curved, artistic brim casting a shadow. She wears an elegant garment with a low neckline and distinctive clustered earrings on her ears. The softly blurred background emphasizes her silhouette.
Lillian Bassman, Translucent Hat, c. 1950, gelatin silver print, Renee Harbers Liddell Fund and Alfred H. Moses and Fern M. Schad Fund, 2020.1.1

Translucent Hat

Lillian Bassman · c. 1950 · gelatin silver print ·  Accession ID  2020.1.1