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Bernd and Hilla Becher — Four works: (i) Ailly-sur-somme, F; (ii) Oeuilly-Reims, F; (iii) Bertreville, Deppe, F; (iv) Coolus-Châlons-en-Champagne, F
Bernd and Hilla Becher

Four works: (i) Ailly-sur-somme, F; (ii) Oeuilly-Reims, F; (iii) Bertreville, Deppe, F; (iv) Coolus-Châlons-en-Champagne, F

This series of four silver gelatin prints by Bernd and Hilla Becher exemplifies their iconic typological approach, presenting industrial water towers from various locations across France in their characteristically austere, frontal compositions. Each structure is photographed under overcast light against a neutral sky, stripping away any sense of drama or subjectivity to reveal the subtle architectural variations between the utilitarian forms. The methodical, grid-like presentation invites a comparative study of industrial vernacular architecture, transforming functional structures into subjects of rigorous documentary art.

Medium
silver gelatin print

🔨 Auction Lot

20th Century & Contemporary Art Day Sale

November 10, 2015

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About this work

Bernd and Hilla Becher, Four works: (i) Ailly-sur-somme, F; (ii) Oeuilly-Reims, F; (iii) Bertreville, Deppe, F; (iv) Coolus-Châlons-en-Champagne, F

This series of four silver gelatin prints by Bernd and Hilla Becher exemplifies their iconic typological approach, presenting industrial water towers from various locations across France in their characteristically austere, frontal compositions. Each structure is photographed under overcast light against a neutral sky, stripping away any sense of drama or subjectivity to reveal the subtle architectural variations between the utilitarian forms. The methodical, grid-like presentation invites a comparative study of industrial vernacular architecture, transforming functional structures into subjects of rigorous documentary art.

Medium
silver gelatin print
Seen at
Phillips, New York, London, Hong Kong

Related themes

Conceptual Photography, Husband And Wife Duo, Minimalist Aesthetic, Documentary Style, Grid Format, Conceptual Art, Typology Series, Documentary Photography, 20th Century Photography, Black and White Photography, German Artists, Industrial Architecture, Silver Gelatin Print, Minimalist Composition, Objective Photography, Typological Photography, Collaborative Duo, French Industrial Landscape, Becher School

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