Smutty
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? Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation. Used by permission.

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Smutty 1982
  • Artist Rooms
Mapplethorpe had previously photographed this androgynous-looking young man, nicknamed `Smutty?, in 1980. This later image shows him in a more confident pose - standing with his body in profile, casually leaning his left arm against the wall and his right resting on his hip. The curvature of his arms focuses attention on a key ring of rabbit?s feet (a traditional good luck charm), hanging from his belt. However, his leather trousers and waistcoat, tattoos, and studded wristbands allude to a darker side, and raise the question as to what the good luck is for. His head is turned to look directly at the camera (and consequently the viewer) in a commanding and almost inviting way.

Details

  • Acc. No. AR00189
  • Medium Photograph on paper
  • Size 50.80 x 40.60 cm
  • Credit ARTIST ROOMS National Galleries of Scotland and Tate. Acquired jointly through The d'Offay Donation with assistance from the National Heritage Memorial Fund and the Art Fund 2008

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