A collection of images of some of the most iconic people in the entertainment business goes on sale this April at Duke’s Auction House, Dorchester. The sale stars at 10am on April 13th with viewing on April 11th an 12th.
The property of veteran picture editor John Halsall, the collection comprises a huge variety of photographs divided into separate lots according to content. Music stars of the 20th century sit alongside film stars, major events and even TV shows. Rare and previously unseen photographs are amongst the items for sale.
When John Halsall first set up his Photo Agency he embarked on the long, and soon very successful, task of building a go-to business. He and his agency became well known in the entertainment and music industry and photographers vied to be on its books.
Over the years John and his ex-wife (whom he later bought out) would occasionally be approached by photographers for sums of money in exchange for copyright. The works currently for sale are those he purchased under this arrangement and some of these pictures have been in storage for over 50 years.
Major stars ranging from Marc Bolan, David Cassidy (foto), Kate Bush and The Osmonds through to the Cat Stevens, The Jam and the Cure are included along with many TV shows including Oh Boy! Morecambe and Wise, Coronation Street and Baywatch.
Festival photos, some backstage and atmosphere shots as well as live, are among some of the most fascinating records here – Hyde Park 1970, Bath Festival, Knebworth, the Richmond Jazz and Blues Festivals are just a few. Pictures of Donovan, Bo Diddley, The Who, Dusty Springfield, The Moody Blues, Frank Zappa, Led Zeppelin and Jerry Lee Lewis are just some of the names covered.
Additionally there are a whole host of other iconic events: 1969 NME Pollwinners’ Concert, 1979 Amnesty International show, the LSO’s 75th anniversary performance, as well as solo sessions with major film/TV stars. These include Dustin Hoffman, Peter Sellers, Peter Cook, Larry Hagman, Jayne Mansfield and David Attenborough (foto).
[All the photographs are offered for sale with full copyright assignment from Johnalsall]
