Gelatin silver print
USA, 1956
Elliott Erwitt (b. 1928) – French/American photographer
Signed in ink lower right ‘Elliott Erwitt’
Signed, inscribed and dated in pencil verso ‘Elliott Erwitt / New York City / 1956’
Image dimensions: 15 ¼ x 22 ½ in. (38.7 x 57.2 cm.)
Sheet dimensions: 20 x 24 in. (50.8 x 61 cm.)
Very good condition

Elliott Erwitt was able to find candid, humorous and often absurd moments in everyday life. The present lot, with dramatic lighting and central composition of the figure, depicts a more intimate side of actress and sex-symbol Marilyn Monroe than what was commonly shown in the media. Known for her ability to play to the camera, Monroe is shown here in a bathrobe, coolly resting her fingertips on her exposed neck.

Executed in 1956, this gelatin silver print is signed, inscribed and dated. The sheet measures 20 x 24 inches. Excellent original condition.

Elliott Erwitt (French/American, b. 1928)

Born in France to Russian parents, Elliott Erwitt immigrated to the United States in 1939. On his travels prior to his military service, Erwitt met Edward Steichen, Robert Capa and Roy Stryker who would become his mentors. After leaving the military, Erwitt was invited to join Magnum Photos as a member by Capa; Erwitt would go on to be President of the agency for three terms. His works were featured in numerous publications, and he is best known for his black and white candid shots of the absurd within the everyday. Erwitt’s works have been the subject of numerous solo exhibitions worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art, New York; the Chicago Art Institute; Palais de Tokyo, Paris; the Reina Sofia Museum, Madrid; the Barbican, London; and the Kunsthaus, Zurich, among many others.