Wilton Lackaye
c. 1915-22
Medium
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution
Accession Number
S/NPG.84.229.23
Tags
Art Historical Context
In the early 20th century, vaudeville and Broadway dazzled American audiences, caricaturist Alfred J. Frueh captured the theatrical world's larger-than-life personalities with sharp wit and expressive lines. This print, titledWilton Lackaye* and dated around 1915-1922, exemplifies Frueh's mastery of caricature as a portrait medium. Featuring the distinguished actor Wilton Lackayeknown for his commanding stage presence and signature mustache—the artwork distills his features into an exaggerated yet affectionate likeness, highlighting the era's fascination with celebrity performers. Frueh's sty...