Rare Photos of the New York City Punk Scene in the ’70s and ’80s

Share:

The progenitors of punk probably never imagined themselves in photographs that would be selling at art auctions, but the New York City scene during the ‘70s and ’80s continues to prove irresistible. Allan Tannenbaum’s rare “punk portfolio” is up for auction — and the kind folks at artnet Auctions gave us a preview of the images. From 1973 to ’82, Tannenbaum was SoHo Weekly News’ chief photographer and photo editor, covering art, music, and political happenings, capturing New York City nightlife at underground clubs like the Mudd Club, CBGB’s, and Max’s Kansas City. All the familiar players are featured in Tannenbaum’s set, including a very sweaty Iggy Pop, Sid Vicious being dragged off by the police, and a chic Debbie Harry.

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions

Allan Tannenbaum,New York Punk: 1974-1981 (Portfolio of 21 Photographs)Live for bidding on artnet Auctions