[Baker, Chet. (1929-1988) & Parker, Charlie. (1920-1955)] Claxton, William. (1927-2008)
Original 1953 Photograph, Signed by Claxton
An iconic original photograph of Charlie Parker performing with a young Chet Baker, by the important American photographer William Claxton, noted for his portraits of jazz musicians. Photographed in 1953 at the Tiffany Club in Los Angeles, "Bird" is shown playing, while Chet holds his horn and listens with concentration in the background. Silver gelatin print, printed in 1987, signed by Claxton on the image and numbered as 1 of a run of 50, and also stamped by Claxton on the verso. From the collection of Terry Southern. 11 x 14 inches. Matted.William Claxton is known as one of the greatest photographers of jazz musicians, with his images of artists such as Chet Baker, Charlie Parker, Count Basie, John Coltrane, and many others appearing in countless magazines and record covers since the 1950's. When asked why he liked to photograph jazz musicians, Claxton replied: “First, and most important, I love their music. But I am also fascinated by the diverse qualities they possess. They have ingenuousness, a sort of open, innocent attitude. Yet at the same time they display a strong discipline in their dedication to their craft. And I also admire their individualism: Their difference in character and their musical expression.” (14685)
Unsigned Photograph Jazz