Alphaeus Philemon Cole

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Alphaeus Philemon Cole (July 12, 1876 - November 25, 1988) was an artist, engraver and etcher. At the time of his death, at 112, he was the world's oldest living man.

He was born in New Jersey, the son of notable engraver Timothy Cole. After graduating from college, Cole journeyed to London to begin a career in the arts. In the mid-1890s, he began to produce many vibrant works, mostly various still lifes and portraits. In 1901, Cole had some of his artwork displayed at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. This was the occasion on which President William McKinley was assassinated. Soon after, Cole began to venture into the fields of wood/steel engraving and etching, but these works sold predominantly less than his portraits. As an artist, he contributed several drawings for the Encyclopædia Britannica.

Though not recognized at the time, Cole is now recognized as the oldest living man from January 5, 1987 to his passing on November 25, 1988, succeeding another notable supercentenarian, 111-year-old Norwegian skier Herman Smith-Johannsen.

Prices for Cole's works now reach $5,000 or more. When he died at the astounding age of 112 years and 136 days, Cole had staked his claim as being the oldest known artist ever.

Preceded by: Herman Smith-Johannsen

Oldest Recognized Living Man January 5, 1987 — November 25, 1988

Succeeded by: John Evans