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Bernd and Hilla Becher — Water Towers H
Bernd and Hilla Becher

Water Towers H

1988

A monumental grid of nine gelatin silver prints, this work by Bernd and Hilla Becher presents a typological study of industrial water towers, each structure photographed with the same exacting, frontal neutrality. The towers, though functionally identical in purpose, reveal subtle variations in form, material, and architectural design, highlighting the Bechers' systematic approach to documenting disappearing industrial landscapes. Printed in rich, luminous silver tones, the vintage prints collectively transform utilitarian structures into objects of austere sculptural beauty.

Medium
vintage gelatin silver prints, in 9 parts

🔨 Auction Lot

20th Century & Contemporary Art Day Sale

November 17, 2016

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About this work

Bernd and Hilla Becher, Water Towers H, 1988

A monumental grid of nine gelatin silver prints, this work by Bernd and Hilla Becher presents a typological study of industrial water towers, each structure photographed with the same exacting, frontal neutrality. The towers, though functionally identical in purpose, reveal subtle variations in form, material, and architectural design, highlighting the Bechers' systematic approach to documenting disappearing industrial landscapes. Printed in rich, luminous silver tones, the vintage prints collectively transform utilitarian structures into objects of austere sculptural beauty.

Medium
vintage gelatin silver prints, in 9 parts
Year
1988
Seen at
Phillips, New York, London, Hong Kong

Related themes

Conceptual Photography, Twentieth Century, Husband And Wife Duo, Minimalist Aesthetic, Water Towers, Typological Series, Düsseldorf School, Grid Format, Documentary Photography, 20th Century Photography, Black and White Photography, Gelatin Silver Print, New Topographics, German Artists, Industrial Architecture, Objective Aesthetic, Black and White

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