Portrait of Pearl Magley

Portrait of Pearl Magley
Inventory
Collection Number: 
17559
Building: 
Current Location: 
Vault
Floor: 
Lower Level/Vault
Object Description
Artist: 
Artist Dates: 
1884 -1982
Artist Nationality: 
American
Object Type: 
Details: 
A sepia toned print of a vaudevillian dancer, Pearl Magley.
Framed: 
Yes
 - Glass
Length: 
25 inches
Width: 
1 inch
Height: 
31 inches
Description: 

Pearl Magley, and her husband Guy Magley were a popular vaudevillian dance duo that toured both nationally and internationally. One of their better known dance routines, titled “Dance Stories”, was popular during 1921. This publicized act featured other dance troupes such as the La Rouge Sisters and Seven Eleven. This print captures Magley in an erect pose with her feet positioned to the right, her torso is turned toward the front with arms held aloft. Her hands are pointed downward in a gesture that appears to be the beginning of a dance. Magley with heavy lidded eyes and emphasized stage make up gazes downward with an expression of contemplation. Dressed in Asian inspired attire, she wears a kimono style top with matching ankle length pants and slippers. Two props are staged to complete the ambiance of the scene. On Magley’s right a seated Buddha and at her feet a shrine shaped object. The backdrop of the photo is primarily dark with a soft lighting in the upper right hand portion of the print.

Reproduce the Work in Library publications/publicity, including film or videotape: 
Yes
Make slides or videotapes for educational use: 
Yes
Permit the general public to photograph the work : 
Yes