Coal Police
Object number2002.86.4
Artist
John Michael O'Cilka
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
Terms
On View
On viewCollections
Nat Youngblood
