JAMES VAN DER ZEE (American 1886-1983) TWO PHOTOGRAPHS, "Escape Artist," NEW YORK, 1924, photogravure on paper, signed, placed and dated in plate, "VANDERZEE NYC 1924," sheet: 12" x 8", plate: 16 1/2" x 12". Note: An excerpt from accession number 883.1990 featured in Your Mirror: Portraits from the ICP Collection elaborates for the reader on the present photograph, "This studio portrait shows a man dressed in modern attire, but clad in shackles from neck to feet. The man is most likely a magician or escape artist like Harry Houdini or Black Herman, both popular performers when this photograph was taken. But the sight of a black man in chains standing in the splendor of African American photographer James Van Der Zee’s studio creates an image that is more complicated than a standard promotional photo. VanDerZee was one of the most successful photographers in Harlem, in part because he shared the racial pride of his sitters, and always strove to create elegant, yet idealized portraits. He documented everything and everyone in the neighborhood, from the emerging black middle class to celebrities of the Harlem Renaissance, from community gatherings and weddings to funerals.," a gift of Daniel Cowin. (With special thanks to the ICP Museum and curatorial author) Provenance: Estate of Ross Gibson Wandrey, Houston, Texas

Apparent stains, tears at edges, toning, and wear, one in fair condition and the other in fair to good condition. Simpson Galleries strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. Statements by Simpson Galleries regarding the condition of objects are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as statements of fact and do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Simpson Galleries. All lots offered are sold "AS IS."