Eisenstaedt, Alfred. (1898–1995)
"Witness to our Time" – INSCRIBED TO THE EDITOR OF LEICA PHOTOGRAPHY MAGAZINE
New York: The Viking Press, Inc.. 1966. First. Cloth-bound hardcover copy of the German-born American photographer and photojournalist's book, who has signed and inscribed in blue ink to the title page to fellow photographer, "For Peter Alport [?] / with best wishes / from one Leica photographer to another / Alfred Eisentaedt", and again in black felt tip to the adjacent image (photographed by Gordon Parks), "For Helen Wright in friendship / with affectionate greetings from Eisie / Sept. 19, '66". 342 pp. With original dust jacket, which has sustained multiple chips and tears. Some light dampstaining to lower right edge affecting approx. first 25 pp, else in fine condition. 10 x 13 inches. Together with an International Center of Photography (NYC) printed exhibition/screening program, "Eisenstaedt / Germany" January 24-March 29, 1981 (8 pp).We have not thus far been able to positively determine the identity of the fellow Leica photographer to whom one of the two present inscriptions is addressed. Presumably this might help elucidate the rather unusual fact that the volume was also, and more intimately, subsequently inscribed to the editor of Leica Photography Magazine, Helen Wright.
Helen Wright (1925 - 2020) oversaw public relations for E. Leitz, Inc. of North America and was editor of Leica Photography Magazine connecting her to the vibrant arts community in New York in the 1960's. She was a close friend, adviser and confidant of photographer Henri Cartier- Bresson from the early 1960's until his death in 2004, accompanying him on several of his photographic journeys and serving as his agent in North America and liaison to museums and galleries.
Eisenstaedt gained prominence as a staff photographer for Life magazine, and is probably best known for his famous photograph 'V-J Day in Times Square.' The Leica IIIa rangefinder he used for that iconic photograph was sold at auction for $150,000 some years ago. Eisenstaedt continued to use the Leica for five decades until his death in 1995, including a shoot with President Clinton. (21403)
Art Art & Design Autograph Document