*U2 – Bono, 1988, Hand-Signed Rattle and Hum Era Photograph, by Anton Corbijn, Framed, (Famously Yours Ltd)*
An original black-and-white photographic image used as the cover artwork for U2’s landmark 1988 album Rattle and Hum, featuring Bono and The Edge, hand-signed by Bono in silver marker directly to the photograph. The image is professionally framed in wooden frame retaining the original hanging fittings and rear backing board and accompanied by an original presentation plaque from Famously Yours Ltd, a recognised UK autograph dealer active during the late 20th century.
The photograph depicts Bono in side profile in the foreground, using a handheld spotlight to illuminate The Edge as he plays guitar behind him. This striking composition became one of the defining visual motifs of the Rattle and Hum project, capturing the stark, minimalist aesthetic that came to symbolise U2 at the height of their global influence. The image was photographed by Anton Corbijn, the Dutch photographer and filmmaker whose long-standing collaboration with U2 played a central role in shaping the band’s visual identity from the mid-1980s onwards. Corbijn’s high-contrast black-and-white imagery from this period is among the most recognisable in modern rock photography.
The autograph is Bono’s genuine signature, executed in silver paint marker, with a fluid, confident line consistent with authenticated examples from the late 1980s–1990s period. The signature is well positioned and visually strong against the dark tones of the image.
Approx measurements: Overall framed size: approx. 33 × 38 cm. Photograph size: approx. 19.5 × 19 cm
Historical Note:
This photograph was used as the cover image for the Rattle and Hum album and in official promotional material connected to the film’s release, including United International Pictures press documentation issued for the London premiere at the Empire Leicester Square on 31 October 1988, held in aid of Amnesty International.
Although inspired by a moment seen in the Rattle and Hum film—most notably during performances such as “Bullet the Blue Sky”—the album cover image itself was not taken directly from the film. Instead, it was carefully recreated as a staged studio photograph by Anton Corbijn, allowing for precise control of lighting, composition, and tone.
The album cover design and associated promotional material were handled by DZN, The Design Group, with design credits to Norm Ung, Tracy Weston, and Riea Pendleton-Owens, who were selected by Paramount Pictures to oversee both the film and album artwork. Rattle and Hum is historically significant as the first U2 album not designed by Steve Averill, marking a major transition in the band’s visual presentation.
*Condition*
The photograph and signature are in very good condition. The autograph remains bold with no fading. Light surface reflections and minor marks are present on the glass only. The frame shows minor age-related wear consistent with display. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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