Gluck
(1895-1978), PainterGluck (Hannah Gluckstein)
Sitter in 2 portraits
Artist of 2 portraits
A member of the family of J. Lyons & Co, the catering empire, Hannah Gluckstein trained at the St John's Wood School of Art (1913-16). In 1918, the artist adopted the gender-neutral name Gluck ("no prefix, suffix, or quotes"). Financially independent and unburdened by social convention, Gluck acquired a masculine appearance, which declared a non-conforming gender identity. This stance is mirrored in Gluck's self-portraits that played with conventions of masculinity and femininity. A three-tiered picture frame (the "Gluck Frame") which was patented by the artist and exhibited at British Art in Industry exhibitions, became an integral part of Modernist and Art Deco interiors of the 1930s. Among the artist's best known works were stylised flowerpieces, inspired by the floral creations of Constance Spry, an early companion and lover. Since the late 20th century, Gluck’s confrontation of gender norms has positioned the artist as an important figure among the LGBTQ+ community.
by Emil Otto ('E.O.') Hoppé
platinum palladium print, 1924; printed 2020
NPG x201392
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