David Bowie: Iconic Photos Exhibition and Auction Preview

A new exhibition showcasing a collection of David Bowie photos, including the iconic Aladdin Sane cover shot by Brian Duffy, is set to open next month. This exhibition precedes an upcoming auction of the collection, marking the first time these items will be available for sale. Among the items up for auction are the Hasselblad camera used by Duffy for the Aladdin Sane and Scary Monsters shoots, as well as the only two surviving contact sheets from the Aladdin Sane session. Additionally, the stool on which Bowie posed during the Aladdin Sane shoot will also be included in the sale.

For nearly forty years, the Aladdin Sane cover image, featuring Bowie with his eyes closed, was the most well-known photograph from the shoot. However, in 2010, a previously unreleased color version of the image with Bowie's eyes open was approved for use on the cover of Kevin Cann's book Any Day Now. The items on display at the exhibition all come from the Duffy Archive, curated by Chris Duffy, son of the late Brian Duffy. The Duffy Archive will be showcased in a free exhibition at Bonhams New Bond Street from October 22nd to November 5th, open to the public from 10am to 5pm.

The exhibition will feature highlights such as the Aladdin Sane cover shot, the Hasselblad camera used by Duffy, the two surviving contact sheets, and the stool from the Aladdin Sane shoot. Visitors will have the opportunity to view these iconic pieces before they go up for auction. Don't miss this chance to see rare and historic items from David Bowie's career up close.