Philip Johnson and his Glass House
Artist
Paul Hester
(American)
Dateabout 1985
Mediumgelatin silver print
Dimensionssheet: 27.8 x 35.4 cm (10 15/16 x 13 15/16 in.)
ClassificationsPhotographs
Credit LineGift of the Artist
Terms
Object number2005.273
Label TextHester studied architecture before becoming a photographer, and is known for his images of historic courthouses in Texas. An association with John and Dominique de Menil, collectors of twentieth century art, led Hester to the prominent architect, Philip Johnson (1906-2005).
Johnson’s Glass House is more important for what it leaves out rather than what it includes. Inspired by Mies van der Rohe's Farnsworth House, Johnson’s house has exterior walls made of glass with only one reference to an interior wall. Nearly transparent, it seamlessly integrates with the landscape. This economy of materials introduced many American architects to the International Style of architecture.
ProvenanceThe artist, Fayetteville, TXOn View
Not on viewCecil W. Stoughton
Novemeber 22, 1963
Stephen DiRado
1990; printed 2017