The Imago Camera: A Giant, Walk-In Self-Portrait Masterpiece for Sale
The Imago Camera, a colossal, 4x7-meter, walk-in, large format camera, is up for grabs. This one-of-a-kind device, developed in the 1970s by physicist Wener Kraus and goldsmith Erhard Hößle, has captivated the art world since its rediscovery in 2005. Since the passing of its caretaker, Susanna Kraus, the camera has been closed, and now it seeks a new home.
This camera is a true marvel. It creates life-sized portraits on 62 x 200 centimeter photographic paper through direct exposure. Measuring a massive 6.85 x 3.9 x 3.55 meters, it boasts a custom optical system designed by Kraus. Subjects enter the camera, are illuminated by six strobes, and capture their portraits by triggering the shutter. It's like taking a gigantic selfie!
The Imago Camera's journey began in 1976 when it was archived due to the unavailability of the large paper required. However, in 2005, Susanna Kraus brought it back to life, restoring it and securing the production of the necessary paper from Ilford in Switzerland. The camera then traveled and exhibited its unique portraits until 2011, when it found a permanent home at the Aufbau Haus in Berlin.
The camera's website highlights its significance: 'The Imago Camera has been a self-portrait camera in artistic photography since 1972. It's a lively, interactive masterpiece blending science, art, craftsmanship, and self-awareness. A globally unique machine that creates life-size, undistorted portraits without digital processes, offering unparalleled photographic quality and size.'
Following Susanna's passing, the camera studio and Imago have been closed. The Aufbau Haus now seeks a new owner to preserve this extraordinary legacy. The blog post emphasizes, 'The Imago Camera is to be handed over to the next generation of photo-art technology enthusiasts and find a successor. This extraordinary legacy of photography's history must be preserved and carried into the future.'
The Imago Camera is now available for sale for the first time in over 50 years. The bidding process is managed by Susanna's sons, and the Kraus family welcomes reasonable offers. While no asking price is disclosed, it's an opportunity to own a piece of photographic history.
This camera's unique story and its potential to inspire future generations of photographers make it a must-have for art enthusiasts. Don't miss out on the chance to own a piece of photographic history!
