William Burroughs

1975
Silver Gelatin Photograph
10
x
8
in

Signed and editioned in ink, titled, dated, and copyright in stamp on verso.


Richard Avedon photographed William S. Burroughs, the influential American writer and key figure of the Beat Generation, on July 9, 1975, in New York City. This portrait is part of Avedon’s acclaimed series that captures prominent cultural and political figures against a stark white background, emphasizing their personalities and presence. Burroughs was known for his groundbreaking novels, such as Naked Lunch, which challenged societal norms with their exploration of addiction, sexuality, and control, and his work deeply influenced counterculture and postmodern literature.

Editions of this iconic photograph are held in the collections of The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the RISD Museum in Providence, Rhode Island.