Lot 438: Louise Dahl Wolfe Photograph, Still Life w/ Partially Peeled Fruit

Louise Dahl Wolfe (American, 1895-1989) gelatin silver print, “Apples,” 1931. Two apples, one partially peeled, sit atop a milk glass plate set on a surface reflecting divided light from a nearby window. Signed “Louise Dahl-Wolfe” and dated 1931 in pencil to mat. Exhibition History: The Parthenon, in partnership with the Centennial Park Conservancy: “Meyer Wolfe: The Star of All Things”. February 5 – June 6, 2021. Label en verso for another exhibition, museum and date unknown. Matted and framed under glass in a silvered molded frame. Sight: 8 in H x 11 3/8 in W. Frame: 15 in H x 18 1/2 in W. Biography: After studying painting, figure drawing, and design at the San Francisco Institute of Art, Louise Dahl-Wolfe began experimenting with photography in 1921, inspired by Anne Brigman’s photographs. In 1928, Dahl-Wolfe married American sculptor Meyer Wolfe and soon established herself as a professional photographer. The couple moved to New York City in 1933, where Dahl-Wolfe worked as a freelance photographer before accepting a position at Harper’s Bazaar in 1936.  Throughout this period, Dahl-Wolfe also created striking portrait photographs of society figures and art world celebrities. Following her departure from Harper’s Bazaar in 1958 until her retirement in 1960, Dahl-Wolfe did freelance work for publications including Vogue and Sports Illustrated. Her photographs are often cited as an influence on later photographers, notably Richard Avedon and Irving Penn. (Source: National Museum of Women in the Arts). 

PROVENANCE: The estate of Dr. Lawrence Wolfe, by descent from his uncle, the artist Meyer Wolfe.

CONDITION: Not examined out of frame. Photograph appears to be in excellent condition apart from a 1/8 inch opaque white smudge in the upper right quadrant. Some scattered minor abrasions to frame.