Sticks and stones, Bits of human bones. Iwo Jima, 1945

W. Eugene Smith first became famous for his gripping photographs of World War II, notably covering the Pacific invasion from 1942-1945. Embedded with Marines on Iwo Jima, Smith captured this stunning image, which appeared on the cover of LIFE magazine on April 9, 1945. According to the LIFE caption, this shot displays Marines blowing up a cave connected to Japanese headquarters on Hill 382, known as “Meat Grinder.” The photo’s title came from Smith’s own handwritten caption. Preparing to send his Iwo Jima photos to LIFE, Smith described this image: “A striking picture which is about the best I have made since the year’s beginning, which still leaves me cold and unsatisfied and yet I do like it for what it is worth.” Barely one month later, on May 22, 1945, Smith himself received life-threatening injuries while hit with mortar fire on Okinawa, taking a year to recuperate.

Gelatin silver print
Open edition
Estate stamped

11 x 14 in / 28 x 36 cm
16 x 20 in / 40 x 50 cm
20 x 24 in / 50 x 60 cm

We advise on a delivery period of up to 2-3 weeks for your print. If you would like your print sooner, please contact our Fine Print gallery team at onlinegallery@magnumphotos.com for stock information.

Please be aware that orders shipped outside of the U.S., UK, and European Union are subject to VAT in addition to customs and duties by the destination country, which may be payable upon receipt of your order. Additionally, any discount codes will not apply to duties and taxes.