Aaron Siskind

Viterbo Broom 49
Recent Acquisition

Maker

Aaron Siskind (American, 1903-1991, b. in New York, New York), (RISD Faculty 1971-1976, Photography)

Title

Viterbo Broom 49

Year

1967 (printed later)

Medium

Materials/Techniques

Techniques

Materials

gelatin silver

Dimensions

Image: 13.3 x 13.3 cm (5 1/4 x 5 1/4 inches)

Signature / Inscription / Marks

Written in pencil on print verso, lower center: "VB-49-67 / Y"; signed in pencil on print verso, upper center: "Aaron Siskind"

Credit / Object Number

Credit

Gift of Joseph A. Chazan, MD

Object Number

2022.71.10

Type

Exhibition History

This Is a Thing
Recent Gifts to Prints, Drawings, and Photographs, 2020–2025
Aug 23, 2025 – Feb 15, 2026

Label copy

Interpretation

The striking abstract forms in these photographs are actually the natural fibers of broom bristles. Influenced by the bold energy of Abstract Expressionism, Aaron Siskind celebrated the interaction of light, structure, and texture in his photos. By focusing so closely on this object without otherwise manipulating it, Siskind invites us to see it not as an ordinary tool, but as a dynamic composition.

Acquisition note

Dr. Joseph A. Chazan (1935–2024) made a lasting impact on the RISD Museum, giving or helping the museum acquire more than 700 works. A devoted supporter of Rhode Island’s arts community, he collected a number of photos by RISD faculty member Aaron Siskind (1903–1991). In 1983, Siskind himself funded the museum’s Aaron Siskind Center for Photography, where students can explore photos such as these. 

[CM]

Image use

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In copyright This object is in copyright

Tombstone

Aaron Siskind (American, 1903-1991, b. in New York, New York)
Viterbo Broom 49, 1967 (printed later)
Gelatin silver print
Image: 13.3 x 13.3 cm (5 1/4 x 5 1/4 inches)
Gift of Joseph A. Chazan, MD 2022.71.10

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