Unknown Halsman

Le livre

This book reveals an overlooked, playful and bizarre side of Philippe Halsman, one of the most innovative photographers of the 20th century. Most of the images in this distinctive volume which include private and experimental photographs, decontextualized advertisements, outtakes from famous sittings, contact sheets and family snapshots have never been seen as a body of work in their own right. One of Philippe Halsmans many aphorisms, The way a photographer sees is an extension of his character, is apt; these photographs not only capture his character, they bring to life the essence of his era. Intermingled with 100 fine reproductions of Halsmans photographs are numerous quotes by the photographer as well as luminaries like Salvador Dali, Jean Cocteau, Martha Graham and Alfred Hitchcock. All quotes are hand illustrated by Oliver Halsman Rosenberg in a unique brush font that is inspired by Japanese calligraphy and handmade zines. Contributing to the well-considered and intimate feel of this publication are the use of yellow throughout the book, inspired by a wall in Halsmans former photo studio; the blue floral endpapers, which were taken from the fabric of Halsmans couch; and the use of a typewriter font that evokes the correspondence found during the archiving process.