Moving Up to the Front

James Francis (Frank) Hurley (1888-1962) Moving Up to the Front, 1918 silver gelatin print, mounted. Other Notes: Hurley was appointed as one of two official photographers to the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) in July 1917 with the honorary rank of Captain. (War correspondents were expressly forbidden to take photographs, which is why official photographers were appointed - and subject to regulation and censorship). Hurley left England the following month for what he called 'the grim duties of France'. He was constantly haunted by the horror gouged into the landscape of the front line. This photo most likely depicts the Australian 5th battalion as they moved up to the front lines in 1918 at Ypres. Photo is in fair condition and in need of some restoration. Original first printing hand colourised Frank Hurley photograph from the first exhibition of his works from the first World War c1920