Ruth Orkin
American, 1921–1985
American Girl in Italy, 1951
Gelatin silver print
13 x 19.25 in. (33.02 x 48.9 cm.)
Frame: 20 x 24 x 2 in. (50.8 x 60.96 x 5.08 cm.)
Signature on recto. Estate stamp with title, copyright and executrix on frame verso. Framer’s label with title, date, copyright information, executrix and number on frame verso. A Gallery for Fine Photography business card taped on upper edge on frame verso.
Printed 1980
Lot ID141871
Estimate
3,000—5,000 USD
From a series of the same name, "American Girl in Italy" is one of the most iconic images in the history of the medium. Though staged, it is infused with a cinematic air of spontaneity, suggesting the endless possibilities open to a young ingénue traveling through Italy.
American photographer Ruth Orkin (1921–1985) grew up in Hollywood, where her mother was a silent film actress. Cinema influenced her eye from an early age and after moving to New York City in 1943, Orkin began exercising her unique vision through photography.
Ruth Orkin worked as a successful freelance photographer throughout her long career, contributing images to The New York Times, LIFE, and many others. She joined the Photo League in 1947, and married filmmaker and fellow member Moris Engel. Together they made several films, including the Oscar-nominated movie Little Fugitive (1952). Orkin's work is held in numerous public and private collections, and has been exhibited in important solo and group shows, including Edward Steichen's seminal 1955 exhibition, The Family of Man, at The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Orkin was also the recipient of many awards, including the First Annual Manhattan Cultural Award in Photography in 1980.
Provenance:
A Gallery for Fine Photography, New Orleans, 2002
Private Collection, Dallas