Alfred Wertheimer
Alfred Wertheimer (1929–2014) was an American photographer renowned for defining the visual language of rock and roll. Born in Germany and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Wertheimer trained at Cooper Union and served as an Army photographer before embarking on a career that captured both cultural icons and historic moments.
Wertheimer’s most celebrated work documents a young Elvis Presley in 1956, capturing over 3,000 images that reveal the musician’s early vibrancy and charisma. His intimate, candid portraits of Elvis—including the famous backstage kiss with a fan—remain some of the most iconic images in music history.
Beyond Presley, Wertheimer photographed other luminaries such as Nina Simone, Lena Horne, and Eleanor Roosevelt, and chronicled pivotal moments in American life, from John F. Kennedy’s 1960 campaign trail to Vietnam-era training camps and Harlem’s cultural scene. His work continues to define both rock and roll photography and mid-20th century documentary photography.
This iconic silver gelatin print by Alfred Wertheimer captures Elvis Presley backstage at the Mosque Theater, Richmond, Virginia, June 30, 1956. Wertheimer spent a week with the 21-year-old musician on the brink of superstardom. His images exquisitely preserve Elvis at his most youthful and vibrant, and remain some of the most intimate moments ever captured of the legendary star, including the famous image of Elvis kissing a fan backstage.
Product Details:
Unique
Silver Gelatin print
11 × 14” (27.94 × 35.56 cm) paper size
Signed and annotated by Alfred Wertheimer verso
Unframed
VAT included in price.
Pickup at the Gallery is available.