John Lennon (from The Beatles Portfolio)
Photography, commemorative lithographic poster print on paper • Richard Avedon (1923–2004)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Portraiture / Pop Culture Iconography. Avedon's signature style involves stripped-down, psychologically penetrating portraits against a neutral background.
Medium & Technique
Offset lithography based on a black and white silver gelatin photograph. The original image utilizes high-contrast lighting and a shallow depth of field, characteristic of the photographer's minimalist portrait style.
Creation Period
Original photograph taken in 1967; this specific commemorative print was produced circa 1980-1981 following Lennon's death.
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 31 inches (visual estimate); square-to-portrait orientation presented in a rectangular frame.
Subject Description
A close-up, monochromatic portrait of John Lennon during the 'Sgt. Pepper' era. The composition focuses intently on Lennon's facial features with dramatic lighting that casts half of his face in subtle shadow, capturing a transition from his 'mop-top' image to a more mature, psychedelic identity.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. Consistent with a late 20th-century poster, there is visible waviness in the paper (cockling), likely due to humidity or improper mounting, and significant reflections on the glass surface.
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $300 (Retail/Collector value for the commemorative poster edition)
Auction Estimate
$75 - $150
Provenance History
Inherited from the owner’s brother, a noted Beatles enthusiast. This specific version, featuring the memorial text 'JOHN LENNON 1940-1980', was likely sold through galleries or high-end poster shops as a tribute shortly after his passing.
Art Historical Significance
Richard Avedon's portraits of The Beatles are among the most iconic images of the 20th century, marking a shift in how pop stars were documented—moving away from promotional fluff toward stark, fine-art photography. This specific poster serves as a significant memorial object linking Avedon's 1960s avant-garde vision with the global mourning of 1980.
Notable Features
Includes the identification text 'PHOTOGRAPHED BY RICHARD AVEDON' and the memorial inscription 'JOHN LENNON 1940-1980' along the bottom margin, distinguishing it as a posthumous tribute edition.
Condition Issues
Visible cockling of the paper support; potential light-induced fading (though difficult to determine from photo); significant glare and glass-to-print contact which can lead to moisture damage over time.
Conservation Recommendations
Recommend removing the print from the current frame to check for acidic backing. Replace with acid-free matting and UV-protective glazing to prevent further fading and thermal expansion issues.
Collector Notes
Inherited from brother who was a huge Beatles fan