Michael Joseph (1941-) - Join the tea set (black t-shirts) rare authentic darkroom print

“Join the Tea Set” — Original 1960s Silver Gelatin Photograph by Michael Joseph

London, mid-1960s
Signed by the artist on the mount
A photograph of original period campaign posters is provided for context (these original posters are not included in the sale)

Offered here is an exceptional original silver gelatin print by renowned British photographer Michael Joseph, created for the now-iconic “Join the Tea Set” youth campaign of the mid-1960s — a playful yet purposeful initiative encouraging teenagers to choose tea, friendship and creativity over the emerging drug culture of the era.

Boldly signed by Joseph on the mount and captioned London 1960s, this image demonstrates his unmistakable flair for composing lively group scenes with wit, rhythm and a hint of theatrical mischief. Three young performers form an elegant triangular arrangement: one pours tea with focused sincerity while the others — clarinet and mandolin in hand — frame her with an exuberant sense of movement. The photograph radiates the cheeky optimism of 1960s London, presenting tea-drinking not as quaint or conservative, but as stylish, communal and knowingly rebellious in its wholesome charm.

Produced during a period when government and youth organisations were seeking inventive ways to counter the rising counterculture drug scene, Joseph’s Tea Set series reframed the simple act of sharing tea as a symbol of belonging and peer connection. His skill at blending humour with message made him a natural choice for the project. Images from this campaign appeared in posters and promotional materials — several of which are shown in the reference photograph provided, offering a rare glimpse of the original graphic treatment.

This print comes directly from the photographer’s studio archive and retains its period studio label on the reverse. It is presented on a simple dark mount, ready for framing, and remains in excellent vintage condition with the expected characteristics of an authentic 1960s silver gelatin print.

Details

Title: Join the Tea Set
Date: Photo taken in the 1960s (London)
Process: Original silver gelatin print
Caption: Join the Tea Set – London 1960s in the artist’s hand
Provenance: From Michael Joseph’s studio archive; a copy of one of the original vintage promotional posters from the campaign will be dispatched to the auction winner
Condition: Excellent vintage condition; unframed

This is a charming and historically resonant piece of 1960s British visual culture — part social message, part pop aesthetic, and unmistakably Michael Joseph in its blend of character, humour and social insight. Vintage examples from this campaign very seldom appear on the market, particularly signed studio prints accompanied by original promotional material.

Dispatched with great care using archival materials, and handled with full respect for its history and rarity.

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