Portrait of Ann Pennington

Hixon's portrait emphasizes Ann Pennington's (1893-1971) magnetic appeal and big stage presence, but the diminutive star was actually less than five feet tall. A mainstay of Broadway musical revues such as the Ziegfield Follies and George White's Scandals, Pennington became famous for her youthful, vibrant dance performances. Unlike many other white stars of the day, Pennington acknowledged the contributions of black performers like Freddie Taylor, who taught Pennington her signature dance, the Black Bottom Charleston. In this image, Pennington is garbed in a short-sleeved romper that sports ruffles at the sleeves and pantlegs. A sailor's collar ties at the front and her waist is cinched in with a matching fabric belt tied in a wide bow. Her long hair is secured in two loose plaits. Penning stands in a slightly stooped manner while holding her pantlegs as if they will get wet. She gazes at the camera as if slightly annoyed. Hixon has lit the scene to create a lovely vignette highlighting both Pennington's beauty AND talent.
Portrait of Ann Pennington
Inventory
Collection Number
17673
Building
Current Location
Storage Room 303
Floor
Lower Level/Vault
Description
Details
The image seen here is a sepia toned photograph of post-silent era screen star, Ann Pennington.
Artist
Framed
Yes
 - Glass
Width
1 inch
Height
31 inches
Length
25 inches
Donor
Donor Name
James R. and Joyce A. Finley and Charles David and Linda Hixon
Library Owns
Yes
Permissions
Reproduce the Work in Library publications/publicity, including film or videotape
Yes
Reproduce
Library has Photography Rights
Yes
Photograph
Permit the general public to photograph the work
Yes
Slides/Video