Andy Warhol painted his portrait of Jack Tanzer in 1976, capturing the essence of a man deeply entrenched in the worlds of art, sports and business. This piece, part of Warhol’s series of society portraits, offers a vivid representation of Tanzer, the then-president of Knoedler-Modarco art galleries. The beige backdrop contrasts sharply with Tanzer’s black suit and hair, while the peachy-pink of his face and the bluish shirt, with its almost obscured key pattern, adds depth to the composition. His subtle smile, captured in Warhol’s signature style, hints at the man’s rich history in the art world.
Tanzer’s journey in the art realm began in the Bronx, where he nurtured his twin passions for art and sports. His early days saw him working as a cartoonist for Walt Disney and later as a sports editor. However, it was his association with the New York Giants and his role as Willie Mays’ guardian that showcased his versatility. But as the Giants moved on, so did Tanzer’s interests.
His foray into the art world was marked by a partnership with Boston art dealer Warren Adelson in 1967. This collaboration led to a significant association with Walter P. Chrysler Jr., aiding him in building an impressive American art collection. This collection would later form the core of the Chrysler Museum in Norfolk, Virginia. Tanzer’s contributions to the museum didn’t end there; he generously donated his collection of Pre-Columbian art to them as well as his Warhol portrait.
Warhol’s approach to the Jack Tanzer portrait was meticulous. Starting with a session of black-and-white Polaroid photographs, the artist selected the best to be enlarged and transferred to a silkscreen. Warhol’s method, which involved minimal intervention and a focus on broad swaths of paint, transformed his subjects into glamorous icons rather than society patrons.Â
Beyond the canvas, Tanzer’s life was a tapestry of art dealings and associations with renowned figures like Armand Hammer, Imelda Marcos, and the Shah of Iran. His tenure at M. Knoedler & Company saw him at the heart of significant art negotiations, including the groundbreaking loan of artworks from the Soviet Hermitage museum during the Cold War. Tanzer’s knack for complex deals and his ability to turn art into investments showcased his prowess as a dealer.
However, it wasn’t just business for Tanzer. His love for art was evident in his personal collection, which included pieces from renowned artists like Cezanne. His association with Andy Warhol culminated in the portrait that now stands as a testament to his profound impact and legacy in the art world.Â
