Rare Photograph Behind Led Zeppelin IV Album Cover Up for Auction
A unique photograph that served as the inspiration for the album cover of Led Zeppelin's fourth album is set to be auctioned off, potentially fetching thousands of pounds. The image features thatcher Lot Long from Wiltshire and is believed to be the original frame behind the iconic cover art of Led Zeppelin IV, which includes the band's famous track "Stairway to Heaven." The print of this historic picture, considered to be the largest and highest quality example discovered so far, will be up for sale at an auction house in Horsham, West Sussex, with an estimated price range of £1,500 to £2,000.
Leo Denham, the managing director of Denhams auctioneers, expressed excitement about the buzz surrounding the photograph, noting significant interest from collectors in the United States and worldwide. The image of Lot Long dates back to the 19th century and was first identified by Brian Edwards from the University of the West of England in 2023. The print being auctioned is derived from the original negative of the image and is considered the largest of its kind, measuring 60.8 x 44.4cm (29.3 x 17.4 inches), making it a unique and rare piece of music memorabilia.
Art Consultant Tim Williams highlighted the significance of this particular print, emphasizing its exceptional size and rarity compared to other surviving examples associated with the Led Zeppelin album imagery. The album cover for Led Zeppelin IV is said to have originated when Robert Plant, the band's lead singer, discovered a version of the image in an antique shop near guitarist Jimmy Page's residence in Pangbourne, Berkshire. Released in 1971, Led Zeppelin IV has become one of the best-selling albums of all time, with over 37 million copies sold worldwide.
The auction for this historic photograph is scheduled to take place at approximately 15:15 GMT on Wednesday, offering collectors and music enthusiasts the opportunity to own a piece of rock music history. Don't miss out on this unique chance to acquire a significant artifact linked to the legendary Led Zeppelin album cover.