Sotheby’s New York, the prestigious auction house, is gearing up for its upcoming online-only auction titled “Photographs,” featuring the remarkable works of celebrated British photographer Chris Smith. This auction shines a spotlight on Smith’s iconic photograph, capturing the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali alongside The Beatles. The auction will conclude on October 5, 2023, at midday, and it is now open for bidding, presenting a unique opportunity for collectors to own a piece of boxing and music history.
About Chris Smith’s Iconic Photograph
Chris Smith, born in 1937, is acclaimed for his distinctive sports photography. The featured photograph captures Muhammad Ali, then known as Cassius Clay, at the peak of his career, radiating confidence and power during his preparations for his first bout with Sonny Liston. This signed, framed, limited-edition silver gelatin print measures 60 by 40 inches. It is flush-mounted, framed, signed, dated, and editioned ’47/50′ in ink on the photographer’s label on the reverse. This remarkable pieces is estimated $8,000 to $12,000.
Insights from Chris Smith
Chris Smith provides a captivating glimpse into the historic moment behind the photograph: “This was taken at the famous Fifth Street gym in Miami, where Ali, or Cassius Clay as he was then, was training for his first fight with Sonny Liston, and The Beatles were on their first major tour in the States. They turned up in Miami for a concert and came to watch Ali training.”
He continues, “It was rumored that they thought they were going to see Sonny Liston, who was the world champion at the time. It was also rumored that Ali, or Clay, didn’t know who they were, but I can’t believe that because they were so popular, appearing on all the major TV shows and in all the major newspapers. Anyway, they came together, and it was a huge shemozzle, a huge activity in the gym, there was a lot going on.”
Don’t Miss Out
You can register your bids for the auction here. The lots will begin closing on October 5, 2023, at 12:00 EDT.
This Sotheby’s auction is an exciting opportunity for art and photography enthusiasts to acquire a piece of history. With iconic images of Muhammad Ali, The Beatles, and other cultural luminaries, this auction offers a chance to own a piece of photographic history and delve into the captivating story behind this remarkable photograph by Chris Smith.
The auction has already garnered significant attention, with photographic collectors and enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the sale of many of the works on offer. In an article published by The Times, writer Rachel Campbell-Johnston described Smith’s work as “startlingly innovative and engaging,” noting the artist’s ability to capture “the grit and gloss of life” in his photographs.
Overall, Sotheby’s sale of Chris Smith’s photography promises to be an exciting event for collectors and enthusiasts alike. With iconic images of Muhammad Ali, The Beatles, and other cultural icons available for bidding, the auction offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of photography history.