Water Tower, Connantre, Marne, France
Artist
Bernd & Hilla Becher
(German, Bernd (1931 - 2007); German, Hilla (1934 - 2015))
Date1972
MediumGelatin silver print
DimensionsImage: 23 3/8 × 19 1/2 inches (59.37 × 49.53 cm)
Sheet: 23 15/16 × 20 7/16 inches (60.8 × 51.91 cm)
Mat: 35 1/4 × 29 inches (89.54 × 73.66 cm)
Framed: 35 1/2 × 29 × 3/4 inches (90.17 × 73.66 × 1.91 cm)
Sheet: 23 15/16 × 20 7/16 inches (60.8 × 51.91 cm)
Mat: 35 1/4 × 29 inches (89.54 × 73.66 cm)
Framed: 35 1/2 × 29 × 3/4 inches (90.17 × 73.66 × 1.91 cm)
Credit LineGift of the Hall Family Foundation
Object number2016.75.17
SignedSigned on sheet verso, center, in pencil: “Bernd Becher / Hilla Becher”
InscribedTitled, dated, and editioned on sheet verso, bottom, in pencil: “WT CONNANTRE, MARNE, F PHOTO 1972 (P.62) BHB449 Ed 2/5";
Titled, dated, and editioned on mat verso, bottom, in pencil: “WT CONNANTRE, MARNE, F. PHOTO 1972 (P 62) BHB449 Ed 2/5".
Markingsnone
Edition/State/Proofed. 2/5
On View
Not on viewCollections
DescriptionImage of a water tower with an arched doorway, a ladder on the left, and two signs.Gallery LabelThis water tower in the small commune of Connantre in northeastern France displays faded advertisements for Caltex automotive service and Brandt dishwashing liquid. Bernd and Hilla Becher photographed the structure with a large format camera, likely on an overcast day to guarantee even lighting. Their technique ensured the subject would appear sharply focused, with detailed clarity.
The Bechers are known for their photographs of industrial subjects, often presented as typological grids. This subject is unusual for its inclusion of advertising signage, which distinguishes the water tower by dating it to a particular time and place in history.
Copyright© Estate of Bernd Becher & Hilla Becher
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