HELMUT NEWTON

Helmut Newton. SUMO. Revised by June Newton

Description:

The Helmut Newton SUMO, sculpted into a collector's legend by TASCHEN in collaboration with the iconic photographer himself, redefined the boundaries of art publishing. Originally released in a staggering format at 35.4 kilos, it established new benchmarks for ambition and artistry within the realm of photography books. The monumental SUMO paid homage to Newton’s pioneering vision, featuring a plethora of images that chart the contours of an innovative career filled with daring fashion photography, evocative nudes, and compelling celebrity portraits.

Published in a limited run of 10,000 signed and numbered copies, the SUMO swiftly ascended to rarefied status, claiming a place in esteemed collections worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Its cultural reach was underscored when a singular copy, personally signed by over one hundred of the luminaries featured within its pages, commanded a sensational auction price equivalent to €317,000, affirming its standing as the most costly book published in the 20th century.

This revised edition, meticulously overseen by June Newton, extends the SUMO's exuberant spirit to a broader audience, presenting a refined, lighter edition that retains the opulent grandeur of the original. Accompanied by a presentation bookstand and an insightful making-of booklet with various translations, it eloquently encapsulates Newton’s vision, offering a testament to his enduring influence on contemporary photography.

Market data reflects the sustained demand and appreciation for Newton's opus.

Auction Sale Prices:
- €317,000 for the uniquely autographed edition, April 2000, Berlin
- €5,000 to €8,000 continuing price range for other signed editions

This SUMO edition remains a hallmark of artistic achievement, celebrated for its unprecedented scale, scope, and the enduring allure of Helmut Newton's captivating imagery.