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Welsh Miners. Wales, 1950. W. Eugene Smith

$2,500

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Born in 1918 in Wichita, Kansas, W. Eugene Smith was a pioneer of photojournalism and master of the photographic essay. Beginning with his powerful shots of the Pacific invasion during World War II, Smith forged an impressive career at LIFE magazine, which included classic photo essays like “Country Doctor,” “Nurse Midwife,” and “Spanish Village.” After leaving LIFE, Smith pursued his acclaimed freelance work on projects such as “Pittsburgh,” the “Jazz Loft,” and ultimately “Minamata,” the story of which is currently being released as a major feature film. These are the first modern prints ever offered for sale by the Smith Estate.

Description

In 1950, LIFE magazine sent W. Eugene Smith to cover the British election between incumbent Labour Party Prime Minister Clement Attlee and resurgent former Conservative Prime Minister Winston Churchill. This striking image of three generations of Welsh miners, mired in hopelessness and poverty, symbolized the forgotten people whose lives Attlee’s policies sought to improve. His election in 1945 had ushered in broad social welfare programs across Great Britain. While Attlee narrowly defeated Churchill for a second time in 1950, his victory was short-lived. Deciding to call new elections a year later, Attlee lost to Churchill and the Conservatives in 1951. And the Welsh miners lost their champion. Describing the photograph, Smith later recounted: “I had my assistant call out to them. That’s why they had the quizzical faces. They turned. I think I made two quick exposures and that was it.”

– Digital Silver Gelatin print
– Open edition
– Estate stamped on the verso

This print is for personal usage only, intended for display in the home or other private spaces. For all other uses, such as display in public spaces or institutions, publishing the image online or in print, or any other form of usage, permission must be granted by Magnum Photos. Please contact the Magnum Shop with any questions. Prices are quoted exclusive of tax.

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