Capturing the Icons

Photography has been an integral part of the art world for centuries. From capturing historical moments to documenting the beauty of the world around us, photography has always been a medium that has fascinated both artists and collectors alike. The upcoming March Fine Art & Antiques auction here at Dawsons features an impressive collection of photographs that showcase the diversity and talent of some of the most notable photographers in the industry. It is very much worth noting that back in the pre-digital photography age, photographers ‘shot blind’, and it wasn’t until they developed their films that they realised they had ‘got the shot’!

One of the most prominent photographers featured in the auction is Brian Aris. Aris, who initially worked as a war photographer, went on to become a well-known photographer of fashion and celebrities from the music industry. Aris's black and white photographs of British music icons such as the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Elton John, and Sting are highly sought after and are sure to attract a lot of attention in the auction. Aris's ability to capture the essence of these music legends is evident in his photographs, making them a must-have for any serious collector.

^{A photgraphic print of The Beatles by Brian Aris}

^{Estimate £600-£800}

Another notable photographer in the auction is Chris Smith, who is widely regarded as being at the forefront of sports photography for over 30 years. Smith's favourite sports personality to photograph was the legendary Muhammed Ali, and his photograph of Ali is one of the highlights of the auction. Smith's ability to capture the perfect shot in the pre-digital photography era is truly remarkable and speaks to his expertise in the field. Smith's impressive collection of sports photographs has earned him numerous accolades, including being named British Sports Photographer of the Year four times.

^{Lot 83 - 'No Pain/No Gain' by Chris Smith}

^{Estimate £600-£800}

The auction also features photographs from Michael Ward, who was an actor turned photographer. Ward focused on photographing British women from the stage and cinema who ultimately became icons of the age. His photographs of Diana Dors, Marianne Faithful, and Julie Christie are stunning and showcase his ability to capture the beauty and unearth the core of his subjects.

^{'Julie Christie Birmingham 1963' by Michael Ward}

^{Estimate £500-£700}

The collection also includes works from Horst P Horst, a German American photographer best known for his photographs of women and fashion. Horst used studio lighting to create stark contrasts in light and dark, which is evident in his famous photograph "Hands." Fernand Fonssagrives, a French photographer, also used this technique to produce stunning images of nudes that are both mesmerising and sculptural.

In conclusion, Dawsons’ March Fine Art & Antiques auction is an opportunity for art collectors to acquire some of the most notable works of photography from some of the most talented photographers in the industry. From music icons to sports legends and everything in between, this auction is sure to be a treat for anyone who appreciates the beauty and power of photography.

Are you interested in any of the photographs within the auction, or do you have any photographs you are keen to sell?

Please do get in touch, we would be delighted to hear from you.

0207 431 9445 / info@dawsonsauctions.co.uk