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#DavidBowie #MickRock #RarePhotographs #ZiggyStardust #RockLegends #IconicImages #MusicHistory #PhotographyArt #AuctionSale #LimitedEdition #BowieForever #LegendaryArtists #MickRockCollection #MusicPhotography #BowieMemorabilia
A rare and exclusive collection of photographs of David Bowie, captured by the late photographer Mick Rock, is set to be auctioned at Ewbank’s in Surrey on May 22, 2024. The complete archival box set, comprising twenty-one signed photographs, is estimated to fetch between £30,000 and £50,000. These iconic images, many of which feature Bowie’s legendary Ziggy Stardust persona, were taken during pivotal moments in his career and offer a unique glimpse into the life and artistry of one of music’s most iconic figures.
The collection includes photographs of Bowie both on and offstage, as well as images of him alongside other legendary musicians such as Mick Jagger, Iggy Pop, and Lou Reed. Each photograph, printed on high-quality Canson Platine Fibre Rag paper, measures 41 x 51cm and is numbered 4/9 HC, indicating its exclusive nature. The prints are housed in an archival box, which is encased within the Off Beat Lounge flight case, designed to preserve and showcase these extraordinary works of art.
The box set was conceived by Mick Rock as a tribute to David Bowie following the musician’s death in January 2016. Originally planned as a limited edition of nine, only six sets were produced before Rock himself passed away in 2021, adding to the rarity and desirability of the collection. Accompanying the photographs is a personal letter signed by Mick Rock, detailing his close working relationship with Bowie and the significance of the images included in the set.
In the letter, Rock reflects on the profound impact Bowie had on his life and career, describing the period they worked together as “seminal.” He writes, “[Bowie] was an inspiration to both observe and communicate with. What an amazing artist he was and remains in the beautiful and innovative works he has left behind… He left an indelible mark on my imagination, my psyche and my heart.” Rock also explains his decision to release the limited edition set, stating, “I decided that releasing 21 prints in an edition of just nine… would be an exciting departure. It also legitimately added a small number to my David Bowie editions, many of which are now mostly sold out.”
The photographs themselves capture Bowie in various stages of his career, showcasing his creative genius and transformative personas. From electrifying onstage performances to intimate backstage moments, the images reflect the depth of Bowie’s artistry and the unique bond he shared with Rock. One standout image features Bowie in his iconic Ziggy Stardust persona, a character that propelled him to superstardom and cemented his legacy as a trailblazer in music and culture. Another highlights his collaboration with Mick Jagger, offering a rare glimpse into the camaraderie between two of rock’s most influential figures.
The auction of this collection is a significant event for fans of both David Bowie and Mick Rock, as it represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of music and photographic history. The limited nature of the set, combined with the personal connection between the artist and the photographer, adds to its allure and value. The inclusion of Rock’s signed letter provides further context and insight, making the collection not just a set of photographs, but a narrative of a creative partnership that helped define an era.
Mick Rock, often referred to as “the man who shot the 70s,” was renowned for his ability to capture the essence of his subjects, and his work with David Bowie remains some of the most iconic in music photography. His images have become synonymous with Bowie’s legacy, and this collection serves as a testament to their enduring impact on popular culture.
The upcoming sale at Ewbank’s is expected to attract significant interest from collectors, institutions, and fans alike. The photographs are not only valuable as art but also as historical artifacts, offering a window into a transformative period in music history. Whether as a tribute to Bowie’s legacy or a celebration of Mick Rock’s photographic genius, this collection is a fitting homage to two legends whose work continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
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