Swann held the first auction dedicated to photography in the United States on February 14, 1952. Since then, the Photographs & Photobooks department has been committed to innovation in the marketplace. Swann’s photography department has overseen the introduction of new genres, including the first sales dedicated to photobooks and vernacular photographs in 2006 and 2014, respectively, and continues to bring new perspectives by offering diverse presentations from makers across the medium.
Our seasoned team specializes in classical and contemporary works by master fine art photographers, as well as photographs that employ alternative and antiquarian processes. We also offer vernacular photographs, including snapshots, travel albums, industrial surveys, crime photography and documentary typologies. Our responsive, creative team works closely with clients to realize high prices, bring the medium new collectors, and offer an educated, dynamic dialogue around our sales.
Swann’s Photography & Photobooks department also contributes to the house’s specialized, multi-departmental sales, including LGBTQ+ Art, Material Culture, The Artists of the WPA, Subculture, and more.
