Lot 735

ROBERT FRANK (B. 1924)

Barcelona, 1950

Closed8 October 2009

Price Realised

USD 43,750

More Information

How to sell

ROBERT FRANK (B. 1924)
Barcelona, 1950
gelatin silver print
signed, titled and dated in ink (in the margin)
10 x 14in. (25.4 x 35.4cm.)

Sotheby's, New York, November 2, 1979, lot 420

Specialist note

Robert Frank selected this photograph to begin the intriguing sequence of his early hand-made book, Black, White and Things in 1952. The bold graphic forms of the composition and the musical instruments are echoed later in The Americans, such as in 'Political Rally - Chicago' (see lot 734). This image has been included in every major exhibition and publication of Frank's work up to the present beginning with the 'Post War European Photography' exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art, New York in 1953.

Frank evidently titled, dated and signed this vintage print some years after it was made as the correct title and date for the print is: 'Parade Valencia, 1952.' He apparently thought it was from his first trip to Spain.