Description: This listing is for “Penn Station”, 1958 (printed later) by Louis Stettner (1922-2016) pictured above. About this work: An exceptional image by Louis Stettner capturing life in NYC in the 1950s. This fantastic photograph depicts a train car in Penn Station, NY. Stettner captures the passengers through the windows of the train - each window like a unique scene in a play. The various figures, mostly men in suits, converse or sit in silence with newspapers as they embark on their daily commute. The work is a silver gelatin print and is signed and inscribed by Stettner on the reverse. The work is further stamped by the artist in the lower right. This particular print is notable for its larger size when compared to other printings of the same image. This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a prime example of Stettner’s work for less than traditional gallery prices. Provenance: Private collection, NJ; Acquired from the above Size: 11.5 inches tall by 17.5 inches wide (image) 19.125 inches tall by 25.125 inches wide (frame) About the artist: Louis Stettner (1922-2016) was an American photographer of the 20th century whose work includes streetscapes, portraits and architectural images of New York and Paris. His work has been highly regarded because of its humanity and capturing the life and reality of the people and streets of both cities. Since 1947, Stettner has photographed the changes in the people, culture, and architecture of both cities. At the age of 12 Louis Stettner was already roaming the streets with a photographic eye, and realized early on that the camera could not only serve as an extension of his eye, but also as a medium to express his perceptions and emotions. Born and raised in Brooklyn, it was the exuberant and vibrant Manhattan that cast a spell over the young man. Yet it was in Paris during the post-war years of 1946-1951 that Louis Stettner ultimately became a photographer. He fell in love with the city and its inhabitants, still marked by the austerity and deprivations of the war and German occupation. The aromas of the neighborhoods, the quiet alcoves on the banks of the Seine, and the recent history all around inspired him as much as the Parisians themselves, that came together in the cafés, debated over art, and welcomed him into their circles. Stettner met Brassaï, Édouard Boubat, Willy Ronis, Izis, Robert Doisneau and other photographers, studied film at the University of Paris, and in 1949 exhibited his work for the first time in the “Salon des Indépendants” at the National Library. In 1951 Stettner moved back to New York and worked among the people, photographing kids playing, the cool guys, the hurried steps through clouds of steam, dwelling in the rain, waiting at the street corner. It is a vision that has importance in the way it combines intellect and sensuality. The greatest beauty is often found in the quiet moments, in a face, a composition, a living detail. In the old Penn Station a little girl is immersed in her game with the light playing across the floor. In Central Park there sits a young couple on a stone bench, Stettner only photographs the flirtation of their arms and legs. With a shot of the Twin Towers we sense the cry of seagulls and the smell of salt water. On a stoop in Battery Park sits a lone black teenager, with a shadowy outline of the Statue of Liberty in the background, a view of New York between reality and myth. Source: Holden Luntz Gallery Condition: Good overall condition. Light surface scratches. Typical wear to frame. It is ready to be displayed and enjoyed! This work will be carefully packed and shipped with insurance and signature confirmation. Free local pick up is also available. International buyers - please note I cannot lower the declared value of the package for customs. I frequently receive messages from people after I sell an item, asking if it is definitely gone. If something catches your eye, don't hesitate to inquire before it is sold! Feel free to ask any questions.
Price: 2950 USD
Location: Morrisville, Pennsylvania
End Time: 2025-02-10T21:17:38.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Unit of Sale: Single Piece
Signed By: Louis Stettner
Image Orientation: Landscape
Size: 11.5 in by 17.5 in
Signed: Yes
Image Color: Black & White
Title: Penn Station
Material: Gloss Paper
Certificate of Authenticity (COA): Yes
Original/Licensed Reprint: Original
Framing: Matted & Framed
Subject: New York, Penn Station, Subway, Trains, Passengers, City, Urban Life, Men, Figures, People
Type: Photograph
Year of Production: 1958
COA Issued By: Jarrett McCusker
Photographer: Louis Stettner
Style: Figurative Art, Documentary
Features: Signed, Titled, Dated, Framed, Matted
Time Period Manufactured: After 1958
Production Technique: Gelatin-Silver Print
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
Finish: Glossy