Getty Museum
Portrait of an American Youth
Creator
Jeremiah GurneyAmerican Photographer · 1812–1895
All works by this person →Jeremiah Gurney opened a daguerreotype gallery in New York City in 1840 and continually exhibited his work in local fairs for the next decade. In 1851 he exhibited at the international exhibition at the Crystal Palace in London. After owning a succession of galleries in Brooklyn, Gurney settled into a gallery at 349 Broadway in Manhattan, where he remained for more than a dozen years. Gurney's Dag
More on Getty ULAN- Date
- 1852–1856
- Medium
- Hand-colored daguerreotype
- Culture
- American
- Department
- Photographs
- Institution
- Getty Museum
- Object ID
- 8da51544-f470-4962-827f-80d59d7a79a2
The bare chest and flexed biceps of this young American man might be interpreted as a metaphor for the strength, vigor, and optimism of America in the 1850s. Striking a pose of physical prowess yet exuding youthful vulnerability, the would-be pugilist awkwardly curls back his left fist in a gesture that almost suggests a battle with himself. His elongated neck makes his head seem nearly detached, hovering above his pale torso. The distinct, faint tan line across his neck and shoulders may betray his social class by indicating that he labored outdoors.
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