11-02-201711-02-2017
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsMarlborough MA
November 2, 2017 10:00 AMCalender
234

Michael Collins (American, b. 1930)

Sell one like this
$6,150$5,000
Auction: American & European Works of Art - 3048MLocation: MarlboroughDate / Time: November 02, 2017 10:00AM

Description:

Michael Collins (American, b. 1930)
Lunar Module Eagle and Earthrise, Apollo 11, July 1969. Large-format vintage chromogenic print on fiber-based Kodak paper with 'A Kodak Paper' watermark on the verso, image/sheet size 11 x 14 in. (27.7 x 35.5 cm),unmatted.
Condition: Cracks in the emulsion at the sheet corners, subtle handling creases l.l.

N.B. On Apollo 11, Michael Collins became the only person in history to capture a photograph showing every human being in the universe (including the two astronauts in Eagle) except himself. He recalled: 'Little by little, they grew closer, steady, as if on rails, and I thought 'What a beautiful sight,' one that had to be recorded. As I reached for my Hasselblad, suddenly the Earth popped up over the horizon, directly behind Eagle. I could not have staged it any better, but the alignment was not of my doing, just a happy coincidence. I suspect a lot of good photography is like that, some serendipitous happenstance beyond the control of the photographer. But at any rate, as I clicked away, I realized that for the first time, in one frame, appeared three billion earthlings, two explorers, and one moon. The photographer, of course, was discreetly out of view' (Jacobs, p. 65). The NASA negative number is AS11-44-6642.

Literature: Thomas, p. 206.
Estimate $4,000-6,000


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

hasselblad, Kodak