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Test Pilot Ahmet Khan Sultan, Twice Hero of the Soviet Union, Enjoys a Cigarette

Dmitri Baltermants

Artwork Details

Test Pilot Ahmet Khan Sultan, Twice Hero of the Soviet Union, Enjoys a Cigarette
circa 1946-1971; printed 2003
Dmitri Baltermants
gelatin silver print on paper
14 in x 11 in (35.56 cm x 27.94 cm)
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. James Agah, Class of 1989 (BBA)
2014/2.311

Description

Subject Matter:

The bust-length figure of Ahmet Khan Sultan dominates the composition of this photograph. Sultan is presented here at a slight angle, appearing almost to lean over toward the left-hand edge of the image. The towering diagonal orientation and close-up view of the sitter lend a sense of grandeur to the so-called “Twice Hero of the Soviet Union”—an appellation accorded to those who have distinguished themselves in battle. Sultan looks off into the distance while he smokes a cigarette wearing his test pilot’s uniform in a way that exudes cool, masculine gravitas.  

Physical Description:

Close-up view of a man in a test-pilot's suit smoking a cigarette.

Usage Rights:

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