Coney Island, New York

1928 or 1929

Walker Evans

Associated Names
Walker Evans

Artist, American, 1903 - 1975

This is a photograph of a fairground scene with roller coasters and game stalls. The image captures the intricate metal framework of a roller coaster to the left, contrasted against the smooth, rounded surface of a ride or tent on the right, lined with light bulbs. Central to the composition is a signpost with the word "RINGS" and the fare noted as 10 cents. In the background, various banners and signs advertise attractions and prices, creating a nostalgic atmosphere of a bustling fairground. The structure of a wooden coaster extends into the distance, suggesting the scale and hustle of an amusement park. The image is black and white, enhancing the vintage feel of the setting.
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Artwork overview

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Mr. and Mrs. Harry Lunn, Jr., New York, NY; gift to NGA, 1989.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1991

  • Walker Evans: Subway Portraits and Other Recent Acquisitions, National Gallery of Art, Washington; Addison Gallery of American Art, Andover, 1991-1992.

Bibliography

1982

  • Thompson, Jerry L. Walker Evans at Work. New York, 1982: p. 34 (center left).

1991

  • Greenough 1991, pl. 3.

Inscriptions

below photograph on mount, center in graphite: Walker Evans; on mount, lower left verso: Evans estate stamp with inventory number XIV-90 added in graphite; on mou nt by later hand, uRv//in graphite: WE.162; on mount by later hands, ulv//in graphite: B.L 862 550/ #1 in 1974 EXh; on mount by later hands, lLv//in graphite: #1136 c.1929 Coney Island / B-547 XIV; on mount by later hands, lCv//in graphite: Lunn / Box 27

Wikidata ID

Q64171816

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