Coal Police

Object number2002.86.4

Date1970

MediumFiberboard; Canvas; Paint;

Credit LineGift of John A. O'Cilka

DescriptionOil painting on masonite depicting a rather barren landscape, with a coal mine complex in the left background and a group of striking miners at right being stopped along the road by 3 mounted policemen, dressed in black, each riding a black horse.Dimensions23.25 x 24.375 in. (59.1 x 61.9 cm)
Signedsigned "OCILKA 70" at lower right;
Historical NotesThe painter was employed in the mining industry from 1939 to 1961; a self-taught painter, he painted many mining scenes, as well as religious and political subjects; he was educated at the Pennsylvania State School of Mining, where he later taught; Mr. Ocilka worked for the Pennsylvania Coal & Coke Co., for Berwind-White Corp., and was certified as a mine inspector; this painting apparently represents a scene from the 1930's, though dated 1970; Ocilka's father was also a coal miner.

Related institution Coal and Iron Police

Related institution Pennsylvania Coal and Coke Company

Subjects