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George Platt Lynes — On the Bed
George Platt Lynes — On the Bed
George Platt Lynes

On the Bed

This gelatin silver print depicts two nude male figures arranged on a bed within a sparse, dimly lit interior space. A standing figure holds aloft a light source or reflective object, casting dramatic illumination across the reclining form below, whose face remains serene in repose. The composition employs stark chiaroscuro and geometric framing to create an intimate yet theatrical tableau. The work exemplifies mid twentieth century art photography's exploration of the male form through formalist staging and modernist lighting techniques, positioning the body as both sculptural subject and vehicle for aesthetic investigation.

Medium
gelatin silver print
Overall

Notes

A Ménage with George Platt Lynes, Rago Auctions, 2026-05-01. Lot 177.

🔨 Auction Lot

A Ménage with George Platt Lynes

May 1, 2026

Estimate: $1,200$1,800

Sold: $4,480

Lot 177

For Sale

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About this work

George Platt Lynes, On the Bed

This gelatin silver print depicts two nude male figures arranged on a bed within a sparse, dimly lit interior space. A standing figure holds aloft a light source or reflective object, casting dramatic illumination across the reclining form below, whose face remains serene in repose. The composition employs stark chiaroscuro and geometric framing to create an intimate yet theatrical tableau. The work exemplifies mid twentieth century art photography's exploration of the male form through formalist staging and modernist lighting techniques, positioning the body as both sculptural subject and vehicle for aesthetic investigation.

Medium
gelatin silver print
Dimensions
overall: 19.1 x 22.9 cm
Seen at
Rago Auctions, Lambertville, United States

Related themes

Interior Space, Photography, Formalist Approach, Figure Study, Sculptural Body, Male Form, Reclining Figure, Modernist Photography, Mid Century, Studio Setting, Theatrical Composition, Gelatin Silver Print, Contemporary Photography, Dramatic Lighting, Male Nudes, Art Photography, Chiaroscuro, Light and Shadow, Intimate Scene, Black and White

More works by George Platt Lynes

Collected by

Jonathan Murray, Alex Capecelatro