penccil: The Production Line of Happiness

The Production Line of Happiness

American photographer Christopher Williams examines the theoretical and political history of photography. Image courtesy: The Museum of Modern Art, New York.

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The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Cutaway model Nikon EM. Shutter: / Electronically governed Seiko metal blade shutter vertical travel with speeds from 1/1000 to 1 second with a manual speed of 1/90th. / Meter: Center-weighted Silicon Photo Diode, ASA 25-1600 / EV2-18 (with ASA film and 1.8 lens) / Aperture Priority automatic exposure / Lens Mount: Nikon F mount, AI coupling (and later) only / Flash: Synchronization at 1/90 via hot shoe / Flash automation with Nikon SB-E or SB-10 flash units / Focusing: K type focusing screen, not user interchangeable, with 3mm diagonal split image rangefinder / Batteries: Two PX-76 or equivalent / Dimensions: 5.3 × 3.38 × 2.13 in. (135 × 86 × 54 mm), 16.2 oz (460g) / Photography by the Douglas M. Parker Studio, Glendale, California / September 9, 2007– September 13, 2007. 2008. Chromogenic color print. Paper: 20 x 24″ (50 .8 x 61 cm), framed: 29 15/16 x 37 3/16″ (76 x 94.5 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Acquired through the generosity of Helen Kornblum in honor of Roxana Marcoci and Committee on Photography Fund. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Cutaway model Nikon EM. Shutter: / Electronically governed Seiko metal blade shutter vertical travel with speeds from 1/1000 to 1 second with a manual speed of 1/90th. / Meter: Center-weighted Silicon Photo Diode, ASA 25-1600 / EV2-18 (with ASA film and 1.8 lens) / Aperture Priority automatic exposure / Lens Mount: Nikon F mount, AI coupling (and later) only / Flash: Synchronization at 1/90 via hot shoe / Flash automation with Nikon SB-E or SB-10 flash units / Focusing: K type focusing screen, not user interchangeable, with 3mm diagonal split image rangefinder / Batteries: Two PX-76 or equivalent / Dimensions: 5.3 × 3.38 × 2.13 in. (135 × 86 × 54 mm), 16.2 oz (460g) / Photography by the Douglas M. Parker Studio, Glendale, California / September 9, 2007– September 13, 2007. 2008. Chromogenic color print. Paper: 20 x 24″ (50 .8 x 61 cm), framed: 29 15/16 x 37 3/16″ (76 x 94.5 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Acquired through the generosity of Helen Kornblum in honor of Roxana Marcoci and Committee on Photography Fund. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Main Staircase for the Arts Club Chicago, 1948–51 / Steel, travertine marble / 359.4 × 458.8 × 609.3 cm / (141 1/2 × 180 5/8 × 239 7/8″) / Arts Club commission 1948–1951 / Ludwig Mies van der Rohe / 109 East Ontario Street, / Chicago, Illinois, 1951–1995 / Repositioned by John Vinci / 210 East Ontario Street, / Chicago, Illinois / October 1, 1998. 1998. Gelatin silver print. Paper: 14 x 11″ (35.6 x 28 cm); framed: 26 x 30″ (66 x 76.2 cm). The Art Institute of Chicago, Jacob and Bessie Levy Art Encouragement Fund, 2004.18 © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Main Staircase for the Arts Club Chicago, 1948–51 / Steel, travertine marble / 359.4 × 458.8 × 609.3 cm / (141 1/2 × 180 5/8 × 239 7/8″) / Arts Club commission 1948–1951 / Ludwig Mies van der Rohe / 109 East Ontario Street, / Chicago, Illinois, 1951–1995 / Repositioned by John Vinci / 210 East Ontario Street, / Chicago, Illinois / October 1, 1998. 1998. Gelatin silver print. Paper: 14 x 11″ (35.6 x 28 cm); framed: 26 x 30″ (66 x 76.2 cm). The Art Institute of Chicago, Jacob and Bessie Levy Art Encouragement Fund, 2004.18 © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Sri Lanka, 1989 / Blaschka Model 694, 1903 / Genus no. 1318 / Family, Musaceae / Musa rosacea Jacq. / (from Angola to Vietnam*). 1989. Gelatin silver print, paper: 11 x 14″ (27.9 x 35.6 cm); framed: 18 13/16 x 21 7/8″ (47.8 x 55.6 cm). The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles. The El Paso Natural Gas Company Fund for California Art, 89.34
Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Sri Lanka, 1989 / Blaschka Model 694, 1903 / Genus no. 1318 / Family, Musaceae / Musa rosacea Jacq. / (from Angola to Vietnam*). 1989. Gelatin silver print, paper: 11 x 14″ (27.9 x 35.6 cm); framed: 18 13/16 x 21 7/8″ (47.8 x 55.6 cm). The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles. The El Paso Natural Gas Company Fund for California Art, 89.34 Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Untitled (Study in Yellow and Green/East Berlin) / Studio Thomas Borho, Oberkasseler Str. 39, Düsseldorf, Germany / July 7, 2012. 2012. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 16 x 20″ (40.6 x 50.8 cm); framed: 30 1/4 x 33 1/2″ (76.8 x 85.1 cm). Katherine and Keith L. Sachs © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Untitled (Study in Yellow and Green/East Berlin) / Studio Thomas Borho, Oberkasseler Str. 39, Düsseldorf, Germany / July 7, 2012. 2012. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 16 x 20″ (40.6 x 50.8 cm); framed: 30 1/4 x 33 1/2″ (76.8 x 85.1 cm). Katherine and Keith L. Sachs © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Clockwise from Manufacturer Name (Outer Ring) / Michelin zX / Treadwear 200 / Traction A / Temperature B / Clockwise from Tire Size (Inner Ring) / 135 SR 15 / 723 E2 0177523 / Tubeless / Radial X / Made In France / TN 2148 20-2044 / Tread: 1 Polyester Ply / + 2 Steel Plies / Sidewall: 1 Polyester Ply / DOT FH PI AID X0607 / Canada and U.S. Codes Only / Max Load 355 Kg (780 Lbs) / Max Press. 350 kPa (51 PSI) / V-1 / Photography by the Douglas M. Parker Studio, Glendale, California / December 27, 2007–January 2, 2008. 2008. Gelatin silver print. Paper: 24 x 20″ (61 x 50.8 cm); framed: 37 3/16 x 37 11/16″ (94.5 x 95.7 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Gift of the artist © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Clockwise from Manufacturer Name (Outer Ring) / Michelin zX / Treadwear 200 / Traction A / Temperature B / Clockwise from Tire Size (Inner Ring) / 135 SR 15 / 723 E2 0177523 / Tubeless / Radial X / Made In France / TN 2148 20-2044 / Tread: 1 Polyester Ply / + 2 Steel Plies / Sidewall: 1 Polyester Ply / DOT FH PI AID X0607 / Canada and U.S. Codes Only / Max Load 355 Kg (780 Lbs) / Max Press. 350 kPa (51 PSI) / V-1 / Photography by the Douglas M. Parker Studio, Glendale, California / December 27, 2007–January 2, 2008. 2008. Gelatin silver print. Paper: 24 x 20″ (61 x 50.8 cm); framed: 37 3/16 x 37 11/16″ (94.5 x 95.7 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Gift of the artist © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Kodak Three Point Reflection Guide / © 1968, Eastman Kodak Company, 1968 / (Meiko laughing) / Vancouver, B.C. / April 6, 2005. 2005. Chromogenic color print. Paper: 20 x 24″ (50.8 x 61 cm); framed: 34 x 37 3/4″ (86.4 x 95.9 cm). Glenstone. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Kodak Three Point Reflection Guide / © 1968, Eastman Kodak Company, 1968 / (Meiko laughing) / Vancouver, B.C. / April 6, 2005. 2005. Chromogenic color print. Paper: 20 x 24″ (50.8 x 61 cm); framed: 34 x 37 3/4″ (86.4 x 95.9 cm). Glenstone. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Kodak Three Point Reflection Guide / © 1968, Eastman Kodak Company, 1968 / (Corn) / Photography by the Douglas M. Parker Studio, Glendale, California / April 17, 2003. 2003. Dye transfer print. Paper: 16 x 20″ (40.6 x 50.8 cm); framed: 29 1/8 x 32 1/8 (74 x 81.6 cm). Collection of Thomas Struth, Berlin © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Model #105M – R59C / Keystone Shower Door / 57.4 × 59˝ / Chrome/Raindrop / SKU #109149 / #96235. 970 – 084 – 000 / (Meiko) / Vancouver, B.C / April 6, 2005 (No. 1). 2005. Gelatin silver print. Paper: 16 x 20″ (40.6 × 50.8 cm); framed: 29 15/16 x 37 3/8″ (76 x 94.9 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Acquired through the generosity of the Contemporary Arts Council of The Museum of Modern Art © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Model #105M – R59C / Keystone Shower Door / 57.4 × 59˝ / Chrome/Raindrop / SKU #109149 / #96235. 970 – 084 – 000 / (Meiko) / Vancouver, B.C / April 6, 2005 (No. 1). 2005. Gelatin silver print. Paper: 16 x 20″ (40.6 × 50.8 cm); framed: 29 15/16 x 37 3/8″ (76 x 94.9 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Acquired through the generosity of the Contemporary Arts Council of The Museum of Modern Art © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Weimar Lux CDS, VEB Feingerätewerk Weimar / Price 86.50 Mark GDR / Filmempfindlichkeitsbereich 9 bis 45 DIN und 6 bis 25000 ASA / Blendenskala 0,5 bis 45, Zeitskala 1/4000 Sekunde bis 8 Stunden, ca. 1980 / Models: Ellena Borho and Christoph Boland / November 12, 2010. 2010. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 24 x 20″ (61 x 50.8 cm); framed: 37 1/2 x 32 1/2″ (95.3 x 82.6 cm). The Art Institute of Chicago, Photography Associates, James and Karen Frank, and Comer Foundation funds, 2011.318. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Weimar Lux CDS, VEB Feingerätewerk Weimar / Price 86.50 Mark GDR / Filmempfindlichkeitsbereich 9 bis 45 DIN und 6 bis 25000 ASA / Blendenskala 0,5 bis 45, Zeitskala 1/4000 Sekunde bis 8 Stunden, ca. 1980 / Models: Ellena Borho and Christoph Boland / November 12, 2010. 2010. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 24 x 20″ (61 x 50.8 cm); framed: 37 1/2 x 32 1/2″ (95.3 x 82.6 cm). The Art Institute of Chicago, Photography Associates, James and Karen Frank, and Comer Foundation funds, 2011.318. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Erratum / AGFA Color (oversaturated) / Camera: Robertson Process Model 31 580 Serial #F97-116 / Lens: Apo Nikkor 455 mm stopped down to f90 / Lighting: 16,000 Watts Tungsten 3200 degrees Kelvin / Film: Kodak Plus-X Pan ASA 125 / Kodak Pan Masking for contrast and colour correction / Film developer: Kodak HC-110 Dilution B (1:7) used @ 68 degrees Fahrenheit / Exposure and development times (in minutes): / Exposure Development / Red Filter Kodak Wratten PM25 2´30˝ 4´40˝ / Green Filter Kodak Wratten PM61 10´20˝ 3´30˝ / Blue Filter Kodak Wratten PM47B 7´00˝ 7´00˝ / Paper: Fujicolor Crystal Archive Type C Glossy / Chemistry: Kodak RA-4 / Processor: Tray. 2000. Chromogenic color print. Paper: 14 × 11″ (35.6 × 27.9 cm); framed: 29 3/4 × 25 3/8″ (75.6 × 64.5 cm). Kravis Collection. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Erratum / AGFA Color (oversaturated) / Camera: Robertson Process Model 31 580 Serial #F97-116 / Lens: Apo Nikkor 455 mm stopped down to f90 / Lighting: 16,000 Watts Tungsten 3200 degrees Kelvin / Film: Kodak Plus-X Pan ASA 125 / Kodak Pan Masking for contrast and colour correction / Film developer: Kodak HC-110 Dilution B (1:7) used @ 68 degrees Fahrenheit / Exposure and development times (in minutes): / Exposure Development / Red Filter Kodak Wratten PM25 2´30˝ 4´40˝ / Green Filter Kodak Wratten PM61 10´20˝ 3´30˝ / Blue Filter Kodak Wratten PM47B 7´00˝ 7´00˝ / Paper: Fujicolor Crystal Archive Type C Glossy / Chemistry: Kodak RA-4 / Processor: Tray. 2000. Chromogenic color print. Paper: 14 × 11″ (35.6 × 27.9 cm); framed: 29 3/4 × 25 3/8″ (75.6 × 64.5 cm). Kravis Collection. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Model: 1964 Renault Dauphine-Four, R-1095 / Body Type & Seating: 4-dr-sedan–4 to 5 persons / Engine Type: 14/52 Weight: 1397 lbs. Price: $1,495.00 USD (original) / ENGINE DATA: / Base Four: inline, overhead-valve four-cylinder / Cast iron block and aluminum head. W/removable cylinder sleeves. / Displacement : 51.5 cu. in. (845 oc.) / Bore and Stroke: 2.23 × 3.14 in. (58 × 80 mm) / Compression ratio: 7.25:1 Brake Horsepower: 32 (SAE) at 4200 rpm / Torque: 50 lbs. at 2000 rpm. Three main bearings. Solid valve lifters. / Single downdraft carburetor / CHASSIS DATA: / Wheelbase 89 in. Overall length, 155 in. Height: 57 in. / Width: 60 in. Front thread: 49 in. Rear thread: 48 in. / Standard Tires: 5.50 × 15 TECHNICAL: / Layout: rear engine, rear drive. Transmission: four speed manual / Steering: rack and pinion. Suspension (front): independent coil springs. / Suspension (back): independent with swing axles and coil springs. Brakes: / front/rear disc. Body construction: steel unibody. / PRODUCTION DATA: / Sales 18,432 sold in U.S. in 1964 (all types) / Manufacturer: Régie Nationale des Usines Renault; Billancourt, France / Distributor: Renault Inc., New York, NY., U.S.A. / Serial number: R-10950059799 / Engine Number: Type 670-05 # 191563 / California License Plate number: UOU 087 / Vehicle ID number: 0059799 (For R.R.V.) / Los Angeles, California / January 15, 2000 (No. 6). 2000. Gelatin silver print. Paper: 11 x 14″ (28 x 35.6 cm); framed: 26 × 30″ (66 × 76.2 cm). The Art Institute of Chicago, Emilie L. Wild Fund, 2004.21 © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Model: 1964 Renault Dauphine-Four, R-1095 / Body Type & Seating: 4-dr-sedan–4 to 5 persons / Engine Type: 14/52 Weight: 1397 lbs. Price: $1,495.00 USD (original) / ENGINE DATA: / Base Four: inline, overhead-valve four-cylinder / Cast iron block and aluminum head. W/removable cylinder sleeves. / Displacement : 51.5 cu. in. (845 oc.) / Bore and Stroke: 2.23 × 3.14 in. (58 × 80 mm) / Compression ratio: 7.25:1 Brake Horsepower: 32 (SAE) at 4200 rpm / Torque: 50 lbs. at 2000 rpm. Three main bearings. Solid valve lifters. / Single downdraft carburetor / CHASSIS DATA: / Wheelbase 89 in. Overall length, 155 in. Height: 57 in. / Width: 60 in. Front thread: 49 in. Rear thread: 48 in. / Standard Tires: 5.50 × 15 TECHNICAL: / Layout: rear engine, rear drive. Transmission: four speed manual / Steering: rack and pinion. Suspension (front): independent coil springs. / Suspension (back): independent with swing axles and coil springs. Brakes: / front/rear disc. Body construction: steel unibody. / PRODUCTION DATA: / Sales 18,432 sold in U.S. in 1964 (all types) / Manufacturer: Régie Nationale des Usines Renault; Billancourt, France / Distributor: Renault Inc., New York, NY., U.S.A. / Serial number: R-10950059799 / Engine Number: Type 670-05 # 191563 / California License Plate number: UOU 087 / Vehicle ID number: 0059799 (For R.R.V.) / Los Angeles, California / January 15, 2000 (No. 6). 2000. Gelatin silver print. Paper: 11 x 14″ (28 x 35.6 cm); framed: 26 × 30″ (66 × 76.2 cm). The Art Institute of Chicago, Emilie L. Wild Fund, 2004.21 © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Fig. 2: Loading the film (ORWO NP15 135-36 ASA 25, Manufactured by VEB Filmfabrik Wolfen, Wolfen, German Democratic Republic) / Exakta Varex IIa / 35 mm film SLR camera / Manufactured by Ihagee Kamerawerk Steenbergen & Co, Dresden, German Democratic Republic / Body serial no. 979625 (Production period: 1960–1963) / Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar / 50mm f/2.8 lens / Manufactured by VEB Carl Zeiss Jena, Jena, / German Democratic Republic / Serial no. 8034351 (Production period: 1967–1970) / Model: Christoph Boland / Studio Thomas Borho, Oberkasseler Str. 39, Düsseldorf, Germany / June 25, 2012. 2012. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 20 x 24″ (50.8 x 61 cm), framed: 33 3/8 x 37 3/8″ (84.7 x 94.8 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Acquired through the generosity of David Dechman and Michel Mercure in honor of Joel Wachs. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Fig. 2: Loading the film (ORWO NP15 135-36 ASA 25, Manufactured by VEB Filmfabrik Wolfen, Wolfen, German Democratic Republic) / Exakta Varex IIa / 35 mm film SLR camera / Manufactured by Ihagee Kamerawerk Steenbergen & Co, Dresden, German Democratic Republic / Body serial no. 979625 (Production period: 1960–1963) / Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar / 50mm f/2.8 lens / Manufactured by VEB Carl Zeiss Jena, Jena, / German Democratic Republic / Serial no. 8034351 (Production period: 1967–1970) / Model: Christoph Boland / Studio Thomas Borho, Oberkasseler Str. 39, Düsseldorf, Germany / June 25, 2012. 2012. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 20 x 24″ (50.8 x 61 cm), framed: 33 3/8 x 37 3/8″ (84.7 x 94.8 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Acquired through the generosity of David Dechman and Michel Mercure in honor of Joel Wachs. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Fig. 4: Changing the shutter speed / Exakta Varex IIa / 35 mm film SLR camera / Manufactured by Ihagee Kamerawerk Steenbergen & Co, Dresden, German Democratic Republic / Body serial no. 979625 (Production period: 1960–1963) / Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar / 50mm f/2.8 lens / Manufactured by VEB Carl Zeiss Jena, Jena, / German Democratic Republic / Serial no. 8034351 (Production period: 1967–1970) / Model: Christoph Boland / Studio Thomas Borho, Oberkasseler Str. 39, Düsseldorf, Germany / June 19, 2012. 2012. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 24 x 20″ (61 x 50.8 cm), framed: 37 3/8 x 33 3/8″ (94.8 x 84.7 cm). Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Fig. 4: Changing the shutter speed / Exakta Varex IIa / 35 mm film SLR camera / Manufactured by Ihagee Kamerawerk Steenbergen & Co, Dresden, German Democratic Republic / Body serial no. 979625 (Production period: 1960–1963) / Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar / 50mm f/2.8 lens / Manufactured by VEB Carl Zeiss Jena, Jena, / German Democratic Republic / Serial no. 8034351 (Production period: 1967–1970) / Model: Christoph Boland / Studio Thomas Borho, Oberkasseler Str. 39, Düsseldorf, Germany / June 19, 2012. 2012. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 24 x 20″ (61 x 50.8 cm), framed: 37 3/8 x 33 3/8″ (94.8 x 84.7 cm). Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Cutaway model Zeiss Distagon T* 2.8/15 ZM / Focal length: 15mm. Aperture range: 2.8 – 22. No. of elements/groups: 11/9 / Focusing range: 0.3 m–infinity. Image ratio at close range: 1:18 / Coverage at close range: 43 cm × 65 cm. Angular field, diag./horiz./vert.: / 110/100/77˚ / Filter: M 72 × 0.75. Weight: 500 g. Length: 86 mm / Product no. black: 30 82016. Serial no.: 15555891. / (Subject to change.) / Manufactured by Carl Zeiss AG, Camera Lens Division, Oberkochen, Germany / Studio Rhein Verlag, Düsseldorf / January 18, 2013. 2013. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 16 × 20″ (40.6 × 50.8 cm); framed: 30 1/2 × 33 3/8″ (77.5 × 84.8 cm). Private collection © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Cutaway model Zeiss Distagon T* 2.8/15 ZM / Focal length: 15mm. Aperture range: 2.8 – 22. No. of elements/groups: 11/9 / Focusing range: 0.3 m–infinity. Image ratio at close range: 1:18 / Coverage at close range: 43 cm × 65 cm. Angular field, diag./horiz./vert.: / 110/100/77˚ / Filter: M 72 × 0.75. Weight: 500 g. Length: 86 mm / Product no. black: 30 82016. Serial no.: 15555891. / (Subject to change.) / Manufactured by Carl Zeiss AG, Camera Lens Division, Oberkochen, Germany / Studio Rhein Verlag, Düsseldorf / January 18, 2013. 2013. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 16 × 20″ (40.6 × 50.8 cm); framed: 30 1/2 × 33 3/8″ (77.5 × 84.8 cm). Private collection © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Bouquet for Bas Jan Ader and Christopher D’Arcangelo. 1991. Archival corrugated board, archival photo corners, compound, 4-ply Conservamat, 8-ply Conservamat, drywall, dye transfer print, glass, lacquer-based finish, linen tape, nails, Northern maple, plastic setback strips, primer, screws, seaming tape, paint, and wood. Overall: 120 x 180 x 6 3/4″ (304.8 x 457.2 x 17.1 cm). Lorrin and Deane Wong Family Trust, Los Angeles © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Bouquet for Bas Jan Ader and Christopher D’Arcangelo. 1991. Archival corrugated board, archival photo corners, compound, 4-ply Conservamat, 8-ply Conservamat, drywall, dye transfer print, glass, lacquer-based finish, linen tape, nails, Northern maple, plastic setback strips, primer, screws, seaming tape, paint, and wood. Overall: 120 x 180 x 6 3/4″ (304.8 x 457.2 x 17.1 cm). Lorrin and Deane Wong Family Trust, Los Angeles © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Punta Hicacos, Varadero, Cuba / February 14, 2000. 2000. Chromogenic color print. Paper: 11 x 14″ (27.9 x 35.6 cm); framed: 26 x 30″ (66 x 76.2 cm). The Art Institute of Chicago, gift of Nancy Lauter McDougal and Alfred L. McDougal, 2008.706 © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Punta Hicacos, Varadero, Cuba / February 14, 2000. 2000. Chromogenic color print. Paper: 11 x 14″ (27.9 x 35.6 cm); framed: 26 x 30″ (66 x 76.2 cm). The Art Institute of Chicago, gift of Nancy Lauter McDougal and Alfred L. McDougal, 2008.706 © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). RITTERSPORT / Von oben nach unten/from top to bottom / 100g Tafeln/100 g Bars / Offizieller Produktname/Official Product Name/Ean Code Bar/ / UPC Code for Case/Bars per Case / Voll Nuss/ Whole Hazelnuts/4000417019004/050255013005/10 / Joghurt/Yogurt/4004170270 09/ 0525502700/12 / Voll Erdnuss/4000417266202/…/10 / Weisse Voll Nuss/ White Whole Hazelnuts/4000417013002/ / 050255013003/10 / Marzipan/Marzipan/40041725005/050255025006/12 / Cappucino/Cappuccino/40004172300 03/0550255230042/12 / Fotostudio Axel Gnad, Düsseldorf / October 21, 2008 (No. 1). 2009. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 20 x 24″ (50.8 x 61 cm); framed: 33 5/8 x 37 1/8″ (85.4 x 94.3 cm). Collection of Liz and Eric Lefkofsky © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). RITTERSPORT / Von oben nach unten/from top to bottom / 100g Tafeln/100 g Bars / Offizieller Produktname/Official Product Name/Ean Code Bar/ / UPC Code for Case/Bars per Case / Voll Nuss/ Whole Hazelnuts/4000417019004/050255013005/10 / Joghurt/Yogurt/4004170270 09/ 0525502700/12 / Voll Erdnuss/4000417266202/…/10 / Weisse Voll Nuss/ White Whole Hazelnuts/4000417013002/ / 050255013003/10 / Marzipan/Marzipan/40041725005/050255025006/12 / Cappucino/Cappuccino/40004172300 03/0550255230042/12 / Fotostudio Axel Gnad, Düsseldorf / October 21, 2008 (No. 1). 2009. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 20 x 24″ (50.8 x 61 cm); framed: 33 5/8 x 37 1/8″ (85.4 x 94.3 cm). Collection of Liz and Eric Lefkofsky © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Pacific Sea Nettle / Chrysaora Melanaster / Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific / 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, California / July 9, 2008. 2009. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 14 x 14″ (35.6 x 35.6 cm); framed: 28 3/4 x 28 1/4″ (73 x 71.8 cm). Collection of Constance R. Caplan. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Pacific Sea Nettle / Chrysaora Melanaster / Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific / 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, California / July 9, 2008. 2009. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 14 x 14″ (35.6 x 35.6 cm); framed: 28 3/4 x 28 1/4″ (73 x 71.8 cm). Collection of Constance R. Caplan. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Bergische Bauernscheune, Junkersholz / Leichlingen, September 29th, 2009. 2010. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 20 x 24″ (50.8 x 61 cm); framed: 32 7/8 x 37 1/16″ (83.5 x 94.1 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Committee on Photography Fund. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Bergische Bauernscheune, Junkersholz / Leichlingen, September 29th, 2009. 2010. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 20 x 24″ (50.8 x 61 cm); framed: 32 7/8 x 37 1/16″ (83.5 x 94.1 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Committee on Photography Fund. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Untitled (Study in Red) / Dirk Schaper Studio, Berlin / April 30, 2009. 2009. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 14 x 11″ (35.6 x 27.9 cm); framed: 27 3/4 x 25″ (70.5 x 63.5 cm). Collection of Constance R. Caplan © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Untitled (Study in Red) / Dirk Schaper Studio, Berlin / April 30, 2009. 2009. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 14 x 11″ (35.6 x 27.9 cm); framed: 27 3/4 x 25″ (70.5 x 63.5 cm). Collection of Constance R. Caplan © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Fachhochschule Aachen / Fachbereich Gestaltung / Studiengang: Visuelle Kommunikation / Fotolabor für Studenten / Boxgraben 100, Aachen / November 8, 2010. 2010. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 24 x 20″ (61 x 50.8 cm); framed: 38 1/4 x 33″ (97.2 x 83.8 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Committee on Photography Fund. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Fachhochschule Aachen / Fachbereich Gestaltung / Studiengang: Visuelle Kommunikation / Fotolabor für Studenten / Boxgraben 100, Aachen / November 8, 2010. 2010. Pigmented inkjet print. Paper: 24 x 20″ (61 x 50.8 cm); framed: 38 1/4 x 33″ (97.2 x 83.8 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Committee on Photography Fund. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). TecTake Luxus Strandkorb grau/weiß / Model no.: 400636 / Material: wood/plastic / Dimensions (height/width/depth): 154 cm × 116 cm × 77 cm / Weight: 49 kg / Manufactured by Ningbo Jin Mao Import & Export Co., Ltd, / Ningbo, Zhejiang, China for TecTake GmbH, Igersheim, Germany / Model: Zimra Geurts, Playboy Netherlands Playmate of the Year 2012 / Studio Rhein Verlag, Düsseldorf / February 1, 2013 / (Zimra stretching). 2013. Gelatin silver print. Paper: 19 7/8 × 23 3/4″ (50.5 × 60.3 cm); framed: 37 3/8 × 33 7/8″ (94.9 × 86 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Committee on Photography Fund © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). TecTake Luxus Strandkorb grau/weiß / Model no.: 400636 / Material: wood/plastic / Dimensions (height/width/depth): 154 cm × 116 cm × 77 cm / Weight: 49 kg / Manufactured by Ningbo Jin Mao Import & Export Co., Ltd, / Ningbo, Zhejiang, China for TecTake GmbH, Igersheim, Germany / Model: Zimra Geurts, Playboy Netherlands Playmate of the Year 2012 / Studio Rhein Verlag, Düsseldorf / February 1, 2013 / (Zimra stretching). 2013. Gelatin silver print. Paper: 19 7/8 × 23 3/4″ (50.5 × 60.3 cm); framed: 37 3/8 × 33 7/8″ (94.9 × 86 cm). The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Committee on Photography Fund © Christopher Williams

The Production Line of Happiness: Installation view of Christopher Williams: The Production Line of Happiness at The Museum of Modern Art, New York (July 27–November 2, 2014). Photo by Jonathan Muzikar. © 2014 The Museum of Modern Art

The Production Line of Happiness: Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Mustafa Kinte (Gambia) / Camera: Makina 67 506347 / Plaubel Feinmechanik und Optik GmbH / Borsigallee 37 / 60388 Frankfurt am Main, Germany / Shirt: Van Laack Shirt Kent 64 / 41061 Mönchengladbach, Germany / Dirk Schaper Studio, Berlin / July 20, 2007. 2007. Gelatin silver print, paper: 20 × 16″ (50.8 × 40.6 cm); framed: 33 3/4 × 29 1/4″ (85.7 × 74.3 cm). The Art Institute of Chicago, restricted gift of Artworkers Retirement Society, 2013.1097. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams (American, born 1956). Mustafa Kinte (Gambia) / Camera: Makina 67 506347 / Plaubel Feinmechanik und Optik GmbH / Borsigallee 37 / 60388 Frankfurt am Main, Germany / Shirt: Van Laack Shirt Kent 64 / 41061 Mönchengladbach, Germany / Dirk Schaper Studio, Berlin / July 20, 2007. 2007. Gelatin silver print, paper: 20 × 16″ (50.8 × 40.6 cm); framed: 33 3/4 × 29 1/4″ (85.7 × 74.3 cm). The Art Institute of Chicago, restricted gift of Artworkers Retirement Society, 2013.1097. Courtesy of the artist; David Zwirner, New York/London; and Galerie Gisela Capitain, Cologne © Christopher Williams

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