Artwork Information

  • Title:

    Old Wrestler

  • Artist:

    Wickey, Harry H.

  • Artist Bio:

    American, 1892–1968

  • Date:

    1938

  • Medium:

    Bronze

  • Dimensions:

    19 x 8 1/4 x 6 in.

  • Credit Line:

    Wichita Art Museum, Roland P. Murdock Collection

  • Object Number:

    M40.42

  • Display:

    Not Currently on Display


About the Artwork

Wickey’s personal attitude of independence, his subject matter taken from everyday life, and his direct style contributed to his image as a particularly American artist. Typical words used to describe him in his day were “robust, vigorous, modest, and honest.” A statement by John Sloan, quoted by Wickey’s dealer to promote his work, reinforces the idea of a genuinely American art.  It reads as follows:

To me the outstanding qualities in Harry Wickey’s work are integrity and honesty, he is moved by a creative impulse that proceeds from a response to life, rather than a desire to produce a “Work of Art.” His etchings, drawings, and sculpture have placed him among the most vitally important American artists.