Michael Joseph (1941-) - Authentic Darkroom Print
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Selected by Elena Vaninetti
Has over ten years of experience in art, specialising in post-war photography and contemporary art.
Estimate € 500 - € 600
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Description from the seller
Nivea Nude in Tubs
Photograph taken in the 1980s – original darkroom print (1985)
By Michael Joseph
Framed size: 27 cm x 31 cm (patina finish by the photographer's daughter)
Silver gelatin print on fibre-based paper (un-toned)
This sensual, contemplative nude—entitled Nivea Nude in Tubs—is an authentic darkroom print by the celebrated British photographer Michael Joseph, dated 1985. Known for his masterful command of light and form, Joseph brings his signature sensitivity to this image, evoking quiet intimacy without intrusion.
The model, seated away from the lens, was seated with her back to camera as the client felt her "knobbly knees" were not esthetic —yet in doing so gifted the image its unforgettable grace: a soft, sculptural line drawn in light and shadow, reminiscent of marble but entirely human. The pared-back simplicity has sometimes prompted comparisons to Man Ray, though Joseph’s touch is notably his own—never stylised for fashion’s sake, always rooted in a deeper emotional connection.
This is an original fibre-based silver gelatin print, hand-printed in Michael Joseph’s darkroom and left un-toned. It’s rare to find his prints from this era in such impeccable condition. The unique, distressed-style frame patina was created by Justine, his daughter, designed to harmonise with the gentle age of the print without overpowering it.
Mount and backing are not sealed permanently so you can add some glass of your choice (we recommend the non-reflecting kind) and the entire piece will be carefully packed and shipped via Colissimo french courier service. One-off historical works like this are handled with deep care and devotion—this is more than dispatch; it’s a handover of something intimate and irreplaceable.
Seller's Story
My father, Michael Joseph, was an advertising photographer based in London from the mid-sixties to the early nineties. During that time, he created some truly remarkable work — his most famous moment being the Beggars Banquet gatefold for the Rolling Stones.
My ongoing mission is to share and celebrate what we call 'the other photos' — the lesser-known but equally captivating pieces from his archive. Within this collection, you'll find a mix of test prints, images from specific photo shoots, and more personal works, all created with his characteristic passion and devotion.
Many of these images owe their atmosphere to the magic of the darkroom: intricate group scenes, striking still lifes, and moments that draw the viewer in and stir emotion. Variety is key - and I often offer unique, one-off pieces.
I hope you enjoy discovering my father’s work, and I look forward to sending you a genuine piece of photographic history.
Translated by Google TranslateNivea Nude in Tubs
Photograph taken in the 1980s – original darkroom print (1985)
By Michael Joseph
Framed size: 27 cm x 31 cm (patina finish by the photographer's daughter)
Silver gelatin print on fibre-based paper (un-toned)
This sensual, contemplative nude—entitled Nivea Nude in Tubs—is an authentic darkroom print by the celebrated British photographer Michael Joseph, dated 1985. Known for his masterful command of light and form, Joseph brings his signature sensitivity to this image, evoking quiet intimacy without intrusion.
The model, seated away from the lens, was seated with her back to camera as the client felt her "knobbly knees" were not esthetic —yet in doing so gifted the image its unforgettable grace: a soft, sculptural line drawn in light and shadow, reminiscent of marble but entirely human. The pared-back simplicity has sometimes prompted comparisons to Man Ray, though Joseph’s touch is notably his own—never stylised for fashion’s sake, always rooted in a deeper emotional connection.
This is an original fibre-based silver gelatin print, hand-printed in Michael Joseph’s darkroom and left un-toned. It’s rare to find his prints from this era in such impeccable condition. The unique, distressed-style frame patina was created by Justine, his daughter, designed to harmonise with the gentle age of the print without overpowering it.
Mount and backing are not sealed permanently so you can add some glass of your choice (we recommend the non-reflecting kind) and the entire piece will be carefully packed and shipped via Colissimo french courier service. One-off historical works like this are handled with deep care and devotion—this is more than dispatch; it’s a handover of something intimate and irreplaceable.
Seller's Story
My father, Michael Joseph, was an advertising photographer based in London from the mid-sixties to the early nineties. During that time, he created some truly remarkable work — his most famous moment being the Beggars Banquet gatefold for the Rolling Stones.
My ongoing mission is to share and celebrate what we call 'the other photos' — the lesser-known but equally captivating pieces from his archive. Within this collection, you'll find a mix of test prints, images from specific photo shoots, and more personal works, all created with his characteristic passion and devotion.
Many of these images owe their atmosphere to the magic of the darkroom: intricate group scenes, striking still lifes, and moments that draw the viewer in and stir emotion. Variety is key - and I often offer unique, one-off pieces.
I hope you enjoy discovering my father’s work, and I look forward to sending you a genuine piece of photographic history.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Date of print
1985
Artist
Michael Joseph (1941-)
Sold by
Owner or reseller
Title of artwork
Authentic Darkroom Print
Condition
Original State
Technique
Gelatin-silver print
Height
19.4 cm
Edition
Unique vintage framed print
Width
14.7 cm
Signature
Stamped
Genre
Nude
Sold by
