Albert Hirschfeld (1903-2003), Elia Kazan on the set of J.B., no date [1959]. Pen on board. Graphic Arts Collection GA 2006.02628. Inscription: Settings by Boris Aronson – Local 829.
Al Hirschfeld (1903-2003) brought a set of visual conventions to the task of performance portraiture when he made his debut in 1926. His signature work, defined by a linear calligraphic style made his name a verb to be “Hirschfelded” was a sign that one has arrived. Now for the first time, nine decades of his art are collected in The Hirschfeld Century: The Art of Al Hirschfeld documenting Hirschfeld’s life and career and, to a great extent, the history of the performing arts in the twentieth century and beyond.
The Hirschfeld Century examines his influences, his iconography, and his techniques, from his earliest works to his last drawings. Visitors will have the opportunity to trace this unique artist’s evolution by viewing his own body of work, including drawings, paintings, selections from sketchbooks, ephemera, and video.
The Art of Al Hirschfeld was organized by Louise Kerz Hirschfeld, President of The Al Hirschfeld Foundation, and the New-York Historical Society, and was curated by David Leopold, Archivist of The Al Hirschfeld Foundation.
This caricature is for the play J.B., which was performed at the ANTA Playhouse from December 11, 1958 to October 24, 1959. The two-act play was set in a traveling circus that had been on the road for a long time. It was produced by Alfred De Liagre, Jr.; Associate Producer: Joseph I. Levine; written by Archibald MacLeish; music by David Amram; directed by Elia Kazan; production designed by Boris Aronson; costume design by Lucinda Ballard; and lighting design by Tharon Musser. The cast included Raymond Massey as Mr. Zuss; Christopher Plummer as Nickles; Nan Martinas Sarah; Lane Bradbury as Jolly; Bert Conway as Bildad; and others.