Artist | Arnold Genthe
Artist Story | German-born Arnold Genthe moved to San Francisco in 1896 to work as a tutor, and a year later, he opened a portrait studio on Sutter Street. Although the 1906 earthquake and subsequent fires destroyed his studio and equipment, his photographs of San Francisco’s Chinatown survived and were published in 1908, showcasing his unique perspective on the area’s culture. After a period of travel, Genthe settled in New York in 1911, opening a new portrait studio on Fifth Avenue and 46th Street. His work soon earned acclaim, leading him to frequent the White House, where he photographed dignitaries such as Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson. Genthe’s studio rose to prominence as he captured portraits of celebrated cultural figures and political leaders alike.
Artwork Narrative | Genthe wrote in his autobiography that the photographs he captured of Greta Garbo, allowed the Swedish actress to make headway in Hollywood after prior auditions failed to garner interest from film studios. While Genthe may have exaggerated, it is certain his photographs from the 1920s contributed significantly to the fame of actors and actresses.
Greta Garbo was a Swedish-American actress known for her magnetic screen presence and iconic beauty, making her one of the most revered figures of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Her private nature added to her allure, making her as intriguing off-screen as she was in her roles.
Arnold Genthe’s portrait of Garbo captures her ethereal beauty. Renowned for his soft focus and moody style, Genthe often used delicate lighting and slight blurring, giving Garbo's features and expression a dreamlike quality.
Original Medium | Photograph - Gelatin Silver Print
Tones | Monochromatic
Emotion | Serenity, Contemplative, Enigmatic
Product Details | Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. - Simple, elegant design - Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface - Handmade by specialist picture framers - Delivered ready for hanging.
Collection | Figure and Form
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