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Unknown photographer: An original b/w press photograph of the German bombardement of Bari in Southern Italy on December 2, 1943. In the foreground the harbour. Back with describing news telegram and stamped publication date (February 2, 1943). Furthermore stamped “Official Photo - U.S. Air Force”. Photo size 18×23 cm. Frame size 33×43 cm.

Horrible and beautiful. The southern part of Italy capitulated to the Allied forces on 2 September, 1943, yet fierce battles were still to come, among these the German bombardement of the coastal town of Bari on the night of 2 December that same year. Through approx. 60 minutes 105 German Junker Ju 88 war planes dropped their lethal cargo over the town, whose human losses were only enhanced when mustard gas tanks in the harbour area leaked their contents - a tragedy the Allies since tried to cover up.

In the photograph the Allied ground defense is seen as thin white lines, which come from below, while the German attack appears in the shape of the slightly wavy, broad stripes from above.

Condition

This is an original b/w press photograph from 1944, which shows normal signs of handling. Attached news telegram has somewhat yellowed due to ageing/storage conditions. The center of the photograph slightly wavy due to dried up glue on the back.

Auction

Art, antiques & collector's items, 21 January 2021

Category
Estimate

1,000 DKK

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Price realised

1,100 DKK  

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