SHAW, George Bernard Shaw. Deathbed photograph, Ayot St Lawrence, 1950.

Original press photograph, gelatin silver print, c. 1950, showing Shaw lying in state in his bedroom at his home in Ayot St Lawrence, England, shortly after his death. The intimate interior includes mantelpiece photographs and a bedside lamp; notably, a portrait of Stalin is visible among the background images, as referenced in the original press caption. Light creasing to corners, minor surface wear; verso toned with adhesive remnants from original caption—overall very good. 185 x 250mm.

Verso with typed news agency caption headed “International News Photos,” detailing Shaw’s death at age 94 following complications from a fall, and crediting photographer Joe Waldorf; dated January 1950. Agency stamps and handling marks present.

A striking and historically resonant image of one of Ireland’s greatest literary figures, captured immediately after his death.

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