Photograph by
Unidentified
Subject of
Calloway, Cab, American, 1907 - 1994
Date
1930s
Medium
silver and photographic gelatin on photographic paper
Dimensions
H x W (Image): 6 15/16 × 4 13/16 in. (17.6 × 12.2 cm)
H x W (Sheet): 6 15/16 × 5 in. (17.6 × 12.7 cm)
Description
A black and white photograph of Cab Calloway wearing a checked tuxedo and singing into a microphone. Calloway is pictured in the center of the image, both arms bent at the elbow and raised chest high, a conductors baton held in his proper left hand and pointing downwards. His head is tilted slightly to his proper left, his eyes are closed and his mouth open and smiling slightly. The checked tuxedo has high-waisted pleated pants and a tail coat with dark colored trim at the collar. He wears a white shirt and white bow tie. Behind him and slightly out of focus are seated band members. All wear light colored suits and most hold their instruments in their hands, not playing. At the back right side, a trumpet player holds an upturned trumpet to play with both hands. Behind the band, a sequined curtain is partially visible where the spotlight on Calloway shines on it. There are no marks or inscriptions, front or back.
Classification
Photographs and Still Images
Movement
Harlem Renaissance (New Negro Movement)
Type
gelatin silver prints
portraits
Topic
Composers (Musicians)
Conductors (Musicians)
Dance
Jazz (Music)
Singers (Musicians)
Credit Line
Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Cabella Calloway Langsam
Object number
2013.237.11
Restrictions & Rights
Public domain
Proper usage is the responsibility of the user.
GUID
http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5cf81dbdb-0c9e-4115-b48c-e9313989961f

Cataloging is an ongoing process and we may update this record as we conduct additional research and review. If you have more information about this object, please contact us at NMAAHCDigiTeam@si.edu

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