Photograph: Portrait of P.T. Barnum seated, holding a memo book
Part of BM-MSS 002 box 3
P. T. Barnum (associated with)
1880 – 1891 (Date manufactured/created)
Photograph of P.T. Barnum later in life, c.1880s to early1890s, by Elmer Chickering of 21 West Street, Boston. Barnum is seated in a chair with a memo book in his left hand, and a pen in his right, favored "props" in several of his portraits. His gaze is off camera, appearing thoughtful. The pose is similar to that of the statue of Barnum at Seaside Park, Bridgeport, Connecticut. His hair is white, and his face does not give an impression of vital health, appearing somewhat haggered.
Barnum suffered a serious illness in 188_ and this photograph may have been taken during the long period of his recovery.
Behind Barnum to his right is a table featuring a carved crane or heron, and upon which is a large bound volume, perhaps a ledger or bible. To his left is an upholstered stool with patterned cloth draped over it, and a large envelope or piece of paper.
Elmer Chickering, 21 West Street, Boston, MA. n.d.
Phineas Taylor (P.T.) Barnum (July 5, 1810-April 7, 1891) is primarily associated with the Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth. However, Barnum only began to focus on the circus in 1871. Prior to that he managed the American Museum in New York City from 1842-1868, was an elected official, mayor of Bridgeport, philanthropist, promoter, newspaper editior, and investory, among many, many other things. He promoted an image of himself along with his various ventures, which changed throughout the years, and was a celebrity in his own right. He often depicted himself with a pen and paper, or else sitting at a desk.
Barnum suffered a serious illness in 188_ and this photograph may have been taken during the long period of his recovery.
Behind Barnum to his right is a table featuring a carved crane or heron, and upon which is a large bound volume, perhaps a ledger or bible. To his left is an upholstered stool with patterned cloth draped over it, and a large envelope or piece of paper.
Elmer Chickering, 21 West Street, Boston, MA. n.d.
Phineas Taylor (P.T.) Barnum (July 5, 1810-April 7, 1891) is primarily associated with the Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth. However, Barnum only began to focus on the circus in 1871. Prior to that he managed the American Museum in New York City from 1842-1868, was an elected official, mayor of Bridgeport, philanthropist, promoter, newspaper editior, and investory, among many, many other things. He promoted an image of himself along with his various ventures, which changed throughout the years, and was a celebrity in his own right. He often depicted himself with a pen and paper, or else sitting at a desk.
A Gift of the Discovery Museum, Bridgeport, Connecticut
2003.009.029