the–elusive–muse: Horst P. Horst, Lisa Fonssagrives-Penn with Harp, 1939 Born in Germany
the–elusive–muse: Horst P. Horst, Lisa Fonssagrives-Penn with Harp, 1939 Born in Germany, Horst P. Horst moved to Paris in 1930 to study architecture alongside Le Corbusier. When meeting the photographer, George Hoyningen-Huene to whom he became an assistant and lover, he settled as a recognized photographer for Vogue. Fascinated by Ancient Greek sculpture and design, Horst P. Horst depicted his models like statuesque muses often framed by arches and pillars while he created atmospheric and sophisticated compositions. Inspired by Salvador Dali’s Surrealism for some of his images, the American photographer nonetheless privileged rigor and a certain idea of discretion - ‘Fashion is an expression of the times. Elegance is something else again’ - epitomized by the legendary representation of a Mainbocher corset, observed from the back and delicately undone, the lace waiting for a hidden audacious hand: no provocation nor superfluous but a charming and meticulous sensuality. Surely Horst P.Horst’s fashion photographs are not the most innovative nor the most extravagant but they diffuse a quintessential sense of elegance and composure. In his late years, like a nod to his years as George Hoyningen-Huene suggestive muse, the photographer produced male nudes that would later inspire Robert Mapplethorpe and finally turn the restraint artist into the guide of daring peers. (via theredlist) -- source link