Man Ray
(1931)
Medium
gelatin silver photograph
Measurements
23.1 × 17.5 cm (image and sheet)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased with funds donated by Joy Anderson, 2024
© Lee Miller Archives, England 2023. All rights reserved. leemiller.co.uk
Gallery location
Special Exhibitions Gallery
Ground Level, NGV International
About this work
Following a successful modelling career, Lee Miller moved to Paris in 1929. Intending to study under the Surrealist artist and photographer Man Ray, she soon became his assistant, model and lover. This portrait of Man Ray was taken in 1931, when Miller was working out of her small Montparnasse home studio. The artist appears to be lost in thought, his dilated pupils and furrowed brow suggesting an idea revealing itself. While the image shows reverence for the contemplative artist, it also hints at the couple’s domestic ease, with Man Ray appearing comfortable in the presence of Miller’s camera.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
Paris, France
Inscription
stamped in ink on reverse c.: LEE MILLER / 12, Rue Victor-Considérant / Paris XIVe Danton 90-91
Accession Number
2024.110
Department
International Photography