Ruth  Bernhard, Classic Torso with Hands, 1952

Archival silver gelatin print, 11 x 14 in. (27.9 x 35.6 cm) Signed on recto and verso, dated and stamped on verso. Dry-mounted. In pristine condition. Estimate US $7,000 - $8,000

Note: Ruth Bernhard is recognized for her elegant and innovative interpretation of the classical nude. Born in Berlin in 1905, Bernhard moved to New York in 1927 to pursue a career in photography. During this period, Bernhard became associated with the lesbian subculture of New York City, and became close friends with photographer, Berenice Abbott. Also during this period, Bernhard began photographing the female nude, the genre of work for which she would become most well known. After meeting Edward Weston in 1935, Bernhard was inspired to move to the West coast, and eventually opened her own studio in Hollywood. Bernhard is known for very careful studio work, and for a keen awareness of light, composition, and balance.

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