Swann Auction House recently held an auction that featured photographs of some of the most iconic figures of the 20th century.
Swan Auction House’s Recent Auction
The auction featured works by renowned photographers such as Lawrence Schiller , Richard Avedon, and Andy Warhol . Among the photos for auction were rare and beautiful portraits of Brooke Shields and Marilyn Monroe.
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Marilyn Monroe’s Nude Shot Sells For $12,000
One of the auction’s highlights was a nude shot of Marilyn Monroe by Lawrence Schiller. The photograph sold for $12,000, above its estimate of $10,000.
Lawrence Schiller’s Marilyn Monroe Shots
Lawrence Schiller is a renowned photographer who captured some of the most famous images of Marilyn Monroe. He first photographed Monroe when he was just 23 years old, and he continued to work with her until her untimely death in 1962.
Monroe’s Iconic Water Scene And Behind-The-Scenes Shots
Schiller’s photographs of Monroe include the iconic shot of her emerging from the water and behind-the-scenes shots of her on the set of “Something’s Got to Give.”
Schiller’s Book, ‘Marilyn And Me.’
In 2012, Schiller published a book about his experiences working with Monroe called “Marilyn and Me .” The book features many of his photographs of the actress, including some of the shots included in the recent auction.
Schiller’s Statement On Photographing Monroe “On The Way Down.”
In “Marilyn and Me,” Schiller famously declared that he photographed Monroe “on the way down” when she was about to ascend. He meant he captured her at a pivotal moment in her career when she struggled to maintain her fame.
Schiller’s Age During His First Shoot With Monroe
Schiller was only 23 years old when he first photographed Marilyn Monroe. He went on to have a long and successful career in photography, capturing some of the most iconic images of his time.
George Harrison’s Psychedelic Portrait Sells For $38,000
Another highlight of the auction was a psychedelic portrait of George Harrison by Richard Avedon. The photograph sold for $38,000, well above its estimated $15,000-$20,000.
Richard Avedon’s Shot Of Brooke Shields For Guess Jeans Sells For $8,000
Richard Avedon was one of the most influential fashion photographers of the 20th century. His shot of Brooke Shields for Guess Jeans was included in the auction and sold for $8,000.
Andy Warhol’s Photographs In The Auction
Andy Warhol was known for his Polaroid portraits of celebrities and his experimental approach to photography. The auction included several of his photographs, including shots of William S. Burroughs and Holly Solomon’s famous photobooth pictures.
William S. Burroughs’ Famous Portrait By Warhol Sells For Over $9,000
One of the most valuable Warhol photographs in the auction was his portrait of William S. Burroughs. The photograph sold for over $9,000, against an estimated $5,000-$7,000.
Henri Cartier-Bresson’s Portrait Of Malcolm X Sells For $5,400
The auction included a rare portrait of Malcolm X by French photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson. The black and white photo was sold for $5,400, well above its estimated value.
Alfred Wertheimer’s Photo Of Elvis Presley Sells For $2,400
Another iconic photo sold at the auction was Alfred Wertheimer’s photo of Elvis Presley on a train from Chattanooga to Memphis on July 4, 1956. The photo, which captured a candid moment of the King, sold for $2,400.
Calvin Klein Jeans Ad Featuring A Rare Print Of Brooke Shields
The auction featured a rare print of Brooke Shields’ iconic Calvin Klein jeans ad. The controversial photo, which featured the 15-year-old actress in a provocative pose, sold for $1,500.
Shields’ Iconic Photo And The Controversy Surrounding It
Shields’ Calvin Klein ad caused a stir when it was first released, with critics accusing the fashion brand of sexualizing a minor. Despite the controversy, the photo has become an iconic image of 20th-century pop culture.
Holly Solomon’s Photobooth Pictures In The Auction
The auction also included Holly Solomon’s famous photobooth pictures, which captured the artist and her friends in playful and candid moments. The collection sold for $1,250.
The Significance Of These Photographs In Capturing 20th-Century Icons
The photographs sold at the auction are more than just images. They are snapshots of cultural icons and moments in history. They capture the essence of a time and place and provide insight into the lives and personalities of the subjects.
The Role Of Photography In Preserving Cultural History
Photography is crucial in documenting and preserving cultural history by capturing important moments and iconic figures that shape our world. Through photographs, we can learn about the past and the people who have significantly contributed to society.
Final Thoughts On The Auction Results
The recent auction by Swann Auction House showcased the immense value of photographs in capturing 20th-century icons. From Marilyn Monroe to Malcolm X, these photographs serve as an important record of cultural history and a window into the lives of some of the most influential figures of our time. The high prices paid for these images demonstrate their enduring relevance and the continued interest in the lives and legacies of these icons.
