[Larry Thompson and son], Los Angeles, c. 1949

Bob Mizer

[Larry Thompson and son], Los Angeles, c. 1949

9.5 × 7.5 ″ Framed: 14.75 × 12.625 × 1.25 ″ vintage large-format black and white negative selenium-toned gelatin silver print USD 1500

The image of Larry Thompson and his son features a distinctive compositional arrangement wherein the young son is positioned on a pedestal, while the father reclines beneath him. Notably, the haloed lighting surrounding the child lends a sense of divinity to the scene, evoking traditional religious iconography. This creates a striking contrast between the elevated, almost ethereal quality of the child and the physicality of the muscular model. Mizer's use of light, shadow, and composition demonstrates his adeptness in creating a poignant and memorable image that explores themes of paternal love and familial bonds. "Larry Thompson and son" is a testament to Mizer's artistic vision and technical proficiency in the field of photography.