Full length portrait of John Plankinton

Print

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Milwaukee Public Library

Name/Title

Full length portrait of John Plankinton

Collection

Wisconsin Art Collection, Artwork Collection

Made/Created

Artist

Simon L. Stein

Date made

1888

Notes

Given the reported "Stein" signature mark, possibly Simon Stein, noted portrait photographer of Milwaukee's leading citizens, 1880-1920; see weblink below. Probably after a painting; there is a similar or nearly identical portrait of Plankinton at the Plankinton Arcade, except it is a painting (and Plankinton is facing the other direction).

Inscription/Signature/Marks

Type

Signature and Date

Location

Lower right

Transcription

"Stein 1888"

Dimensions

Dimension Description

Framed Size

Height

98 in

Width

58 in

Dimension Description

Image Size

Height

82 in

Width

42 in

Interpretative Labels

Label

John Plankinton (1820-1891) was "the foremost and most beloved citizen of Milwaukee" who made formative contributions in industry, politics, and philanthropy. Plankinton financed the construction of the first Milwaukee Public Library building, formerly at the corner of Wisconsin Ave. & Fourth Street. The Milwaukee Public Library has extensive holdings that offer insight into Plankinton's influential role in Milwaukee industry and politics. Susan Frackelton's hand-illuminated "Voices of Friends Concerning John Plankinton" is a treasure of the Rare Books Room (call number 92 P7125V).