Slim Aarons
Hotel du Cap Eden-Roc Pool
1969
archival pigment print
58 × 39 cm
Ed. /150
Location: Clichy, France
Documents
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Invoice or proof of purchase
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Certificate of authenticity
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Other documents
About the artwork
This composition presents a scene of leisure at a luxurious seaside location, featuring a rectangular swimming pool carved into a rocky coastline. The deep blue of the sky, dotted with white clouds, contrasts with the turquoise water of the pool and the dark blue of the sea. Figures are visible around the pool, some sunbathing on lounge chairs, others in the water, and a few standing on the surrounding rock formations. A large white building with multiple windows and balconies overlooks the scene from the upper right, suggesting a hotel or resort. The rugged texture of the rocks forming the coastline provides a natural boundary between the man-made pool area and the open sea, where waves gently break against the shore. The overall impression is one of a bright, sunny day, capturing a moment of relaxation and social activity.
Expert opinion
This work belongs to a genre of photography that documents the lifestyles of the affluent, a subject that gained prominence in the mid-20th century. The photographer's approach to capturing these scenes, often without overt artifice, has contributed to the enduring appeal of his images. In the art market, works from this period and by this artist are sought after by collectors interested in social history, lifestyle photography, and mid-century aesthetics. The market position for such prints remains stable, with demand driven by both art collectors and those interested in decorative arts.
About the artist
George Allen Aarons (1916–2006), known as Slim Aarons, was an American photographer recognized for his images of socialites, jet-setters, and celebrities. He began his career as a combat photographer during World War II, serving in the United States Army and earning a Purple Heart. After the war, Aarons transitioned to chronicling the lives of the affluent, moving to California to photograph celebrities and later establishing a bureau for Life magazine in Rome. His work appeared in publications such as *Life*, *Town & Country*, and *Holiday* magazines. Aarons developed a style characterized by natural light and a focus on the elegance of his subjects, often stating his aim was to photograph "attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places." He eschewed artificial lighting and makeup artists, relying on the inherent qualities of the scenes he captured. His ability to gain the trust of his subjects allowed him to produce candid portrayals of their lifestyles. Key works include "Kings of Hollywood" (1957) and "Poolside Gossip" (1970). His photographs have been compiled into several books, including *A Wonderful Time: An Intimate Portrait of the Good Life* (1974) and *Poolside with Slim Aarons*.
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