early life and career charles schreyvogel, an american painter, was born on january 4, 1861, in new york city. growing up in a poor family of german immigrant shopkeepers on the lower east side, schreyvogel's early life was marked by financial struggles. despite these challenges, he developed a passion for art, teaching himself to draw and paint. artistic breakthrough and fame schreyvogel's big break came in 1901 when his painting my bunkie was awarded the thomas clarke prize at the national academy of design's annual exhibition. this sudden success led to his reputation as a leading interpre…