Classical Study No. 34

Eldzier Cortor, Classical Study No. 34, 1968, oil on canvas, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist in memory of Sophia Cortor, 2012.72.10, © 1968, Eldzier Cortor
Copied Eldzier Cortor, Classical Study No. 34, 1968, oil on canvas, 1418 in. (35.645.7 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist in memory of Sophia Cortor, 2012.72.10, © 1968, Eldzier Cortor

Artwork Details

Title
Classical Study No. 34
Date
1968
Dimensions
1418 in. (35.645.7 cm)
Copyright
© 1968, Eldzier Cortor
Credit Line
Gift of the artist in memory of Sophia Cortor
Mediums Description
oil on canvas
Classifications
Keywords
  • Figure female
Object Number
2012.72.10

Artwork Description

Influenced by African art and European modernism, Eldzier Cortor created a series of paintings featuring African American women. Classical Study No. 34 depicts a woman in profile resting on her hand. Her elongated facial features and fingers are reminiscent of Cortor’s other figural works. The woman’s red, yellow, and green scarf, among the colors of the Pan-African flag, recalls her African heritage. In titling the painting Classical Study, Cortor placed the female black archetype alongside that of ancient marble sculptures.