The Creaking Chair

c. 1923, printed 1981

Ralph Steiner

Associated Names
Ralph Steiner

Artist, American, 1899 - 1986

This is a photograph of a wall covered in theatrical posters intersected by a large piece of machinery. The photograph captures several layers of urban elements, starting with a rough, textured wall featuring old bricks and peeling plaster as a backdrop. On this wall, several posters are plastered, each announcing theatrical productions. The posters depict vintage styles of typography and imagery. In the foreground, a large, diagonal beam of machinery cuts across the image with cables extending from it. The beam is dark and cast in shadow, creating a strong contrast with the bright tones of the posters behind. This juxtaposition of industrial elements with dramatic, expressive advertisements suggests themes of urban life, entertainment, and the intersection of art and everyday surroundings.
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Artwork overview


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Robert and Brenda Edelson, Baltimore, MD; gift to the Corcoran Gallery of Art, Washington, DC, 1995; acquired by NGA, 2015.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

2007

  • Modernism: Designing a New World 1914–1939, Corcoran Gallery of Art, Washington, DC, March 17–July 29, 2007

Inscriptions

on verso, signed by artist, upper center in graphite: Ralph Steiner / c. 1923 / 1981; by Corcoran Gallery of Art, bottom right: 1995.9.9

Wikidata ID

Q64158880

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