Bernd & Hilla Becher

Three vintage silver prints. On the reverse, each signed in pencil Bernhard Becher Hilla Becher, two individually numbered 3 and 5. Individually matted and framed. Together with a certificate from Max Becher.

Offered by Bernd and Hilla Becher to the present owner.

Bernd & Hilla Becher, Typologien, Münich, Shirmer/Mosel, 2003, pl. 24 (n°3), pl. 26 (n°1), pl. 28 (n°2)

i. This silver print is in very good to excellent general condition. Consistent with a ferrotyped paper, surface shows light scratches in raking light only.ii. This silver print is in very good to excellent general condition. Consistent with a ferrotyped paper, surface shows light scratches in raking light only. iii. This silver print is in very good general condition. Lower left corner slightly worn. In each lower quadrant, a tiny dot of discoloration. The upper left quadrant with a tiny crease visible in raking light only.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Rheim / Moers , D 1963
Bochum, D 1967
Fortuna / Cologne D 1970

The Becher who have had a strong influence and prominent place in the history of photography for their ideas and their teaching, have created through the years a very precise photographic register on industrial buildings and architectural 'types'. 

This specific typology belongs to a family member of the Becher who lived around their studio as a child. He recalls their continuous  and methodical work in the studio combining each typology. He also remembers how the children had to be careful while playing in the studio not to walk on the prints that were often put on the floor.

The frames in which the works are presented are also from the same period and reveals through the different stickers with numbers on their back, their use for making different combinations. Using a magnetic system, they were able to change quickly the prints and experiment different combinations.

These prints were offered by Bernd and Hilla Becher and remained in the same collection since. They are now offered for the first time at auction.

© Estate of Bernd Becher & Hilla Becher