Yousuf Karsh (1908-2002) was a highly regarded Armenian-Canadian portrait photographer. He is best known for his iconic and intimate portraits of influential individuals from the worlds of politics, arts, and culture.Karsh was born in Mardin, Ottoman Empire (now Turkey), and emigrated to Canada in 1924. He developed an interest in photography at a young age and eventually established himself as one of the leading portrait photographers of the 20th century.Karsh's career took off in the 1940s when he captured a now-famous portrait of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill in 1941. The photograph, which portrayed Churchill with a defiant and determined expression, became an iconic representation of the leader during World War II.Throughout his career, Karsh photographed numerous notable figures, including artists, musicians, writers, scientists, and political leaders. His subjects ranged from Albert Einstein, Ernest Hemingway, and Audrey Hepburn to Martin Luther King Jr., Indira Gandhi, and Nelson Mandela, among many others. His portraits were characterized by a meticulous attention to detail, careful lighting, and the ability to capture the essence and personality of his subjects.Karsh's approach to portraiture was to establish a personal connection with his subjects, often engaging in conversations and seeking to capture intimate moments and revealing expressions. His photographs were known for their depth and emotional resonance, offering glimpses into the inner lives of his subjects.Karsh received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, and his works have been exhibited in galleries and museums worldwide. His photographs continue to be celebrated for their timeless quality and their ability to capture the human spirit.Yousuf Karsh's legacy as a master portrait photographer endures, and his body of work remains an influential contribution to the field of photography.
Printed circa 1970s.
Measures 11.9 x 9.2.