Story highlights
Sotheby's has auctioned some of the fashion industry's raciest photographs
A rare work by American artist Irving Penn sold for $322,700
A series of famous – and suggestive – images have been auctioned off by Sotheby’s. 134 lots went up for sale in London on Thursday as part of an exhibit titled “Photographs,” which featured prints by legendary photographers including Helmut Newton and David LaChapelle.
Newton – who had worked with fashion publications such as Vogue for almost 50 years – is considered a pioneer in the industry. He is recognized for pushing boundaries by weaving erotic and taboo themes into his work early in his career.
His images often position female models in a provocative but empowering manner, while subtly incorporating colorful themes into his black and white photographs.
“To have taboos, then to get around them – that is interesting,” Newton had previously said.
LaChapelle’s work, in contrast, is overtly graphic. He uses a signature highly-saturated color palette to create strong and sensational imagery.
His career first kickstarted in the late 1980’s when he worked with artist Andy Warhol on a shoot for “Interview” magazine, and has since photographed celebrities including actor Leonardo DiCaprio and singer Britney Spears.
His photograph “The Money Shot” from 2001 sold for £12,500 ($18,250) on Thursday.
A rare work by American artist Irving Penn entitled “Mouth”, sold for $322,700 — the top-selling price at the Sotheby’s auction.
The striking image features a psychedelic close-up shot of a models lips, which has only been available on the auction block twice before.
See more highlights from the “Photographs” auction in the gallery above.