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Roy Dickens
Execution of Caryl Chessman
1960
Gelatin silver print
12 x 10 ins
Be-Hold
Courtesy of Larry Gottheim - Be-Hold (54 / 53)
LL/34053
Chessman had been condemned to death in 1948, for being the "Red Light Bandit." He remained on death row, but his execution was extended until 1960, as he won several appeals. During that time he wrote several best-selling books. There was wide public opposition to his execution, supported by many notable figures. Finally he was executed in the gas chamber of San Quinten. This is an amazing group of 7 large 12" x 10" gelatin silver prints by Roy Dickens that show Chessman strapped to the chair in the gas chamber. In one, the guard seems to be waving the photographer away. Chessman himself appears drugged, passive. It is hard to believe the photographer had such intimate access. The photographs have Dickens' credit stamp and a French credit to the London Bureau.
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