An original b/w silver gelatin press photograph of American actor James Dean (1931–1955) seated in his Porsche 550 Spyder a few hours before his death on September 30, 1955. Next to Dean, his regular mechanic, German born Rolf Wütherich (1927–1981). Developing from 1961 or earlier. Back with attached news telegram dated February 8, 1961, handwritten notes in blue and red, reference stamps as well as stamped publication dates (February 8, 1961, September 6, 1965). Oak wood frame and double glazing. Vissible size 16×23 cm. Frame size 25×32 cm.
The Porsche 550 Spyder, built in just 90 examples between 1952 and 1956, is, from today's perspective, a small car with relatively limited power. The total weight is just 590 kilos (aluminium body), the air-cooled 4-cylinder boxer engine (1.5 liters) produces 110 hp and the top speed is 220 km/h. Only one example was delivered to Denmark, the majority went to the West German domestic market and the United States. After James Dean's death in 1955, the car was given the unofficial nickname 'Giant Killer', a reference to both the movie 'GIant' (released in 1956) starring James Dean and the fact that Porsche racing drivers in the 1950s experienced an alarmingly high mortality rate.
This is an original b/w silver gelatin press photograph from 1961 or earlier. Surface with a few pressure marks. Back with a few stains. News telegram has yellowed slightly. Furthermore normal signs of handling.
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