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05-26-201506-01-2015
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2818TBoston
May 26, 2015 12:00 PM - June 1, 2015 04:00 PMCalender
1110

Arthur Rothstein (American, 1915-1985) The Bleached Skull of a Steer, South Dakota Badlands

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Auction: American & European Works of Art - 2818TLocation: BostonDate / Time: May 26, 2015 12:00PM

Description:

Arthur Rothstein (American, 1915-1985)

The Bleached Skull of a Steer, South Dakota Badlands, 1936, printed later. Unsigned, stamped "ARTHUR ROTHSTEIN/PHOTOGRAPH/from the collection of GRACE ROTHSTEIN" in black ink on the verso l.l. Gelatin silver print, image size 9 x 8 7/8 in. (22.8 x 22.5 cm),matted, unframed.
Condition: Good, minor crease in u.l. corner of sheet.

N.B. In 1936 at the young age of 21, Arthur Rothstein became the first photographer hired by Roy Stryker of the federal government's Resettlement Administration to document the effects of the Great Depression on struggling families, as well as that agency's efforts to alleviate the economic problems facing the nation. At the time if its making, Rothstein's image of a bleached steer skull was widely published in American newspapers and magazines as visual evidence of the extreme drought conditions plaguing the nation's agricultural heartland.
Estimate $1,000-1,500

Sheet measures 14 x 11 in. (35.6 x 28.0 cm). Inscribed (possibly in the artist's hand) "Cattle Skull" and "G2-3 3/13 MULT" in pencil on the verso l.l. No additional issues to report.


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords

Arthur Rothstein, GRACE ROTHSTEIN, first photographer, federal government's Resettlement Administration, Roy Stryker, United States