Jared French: “Portrait of Ralph” – United States of America – 1947

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ARTWORK: 

Post WW2 sketch of model named Ralph. Ralph was laborer and sometimes academic model for both Paul Cadmus and Jared French. Ralph was sailor in the US Navy and spent many weekends at Fire Island, NY modeling and doing odd jobs for residents. He also brought his girlfriend and later his wife on many occasions.

This sketch was to be used for a larger portrait. French wasn’t sure if he wanted to do angel wings or not. The piece was made in Dec. of 1947. Ralph, according to Fire Island legend, brought the Christmas tree down from Vermont. Ralph’s true location and last name have been lost to history. With some historians attributing him to three other models with the name Ralph, who were active in academic art circles in mid-century NYC metro area.