Milton H. Greene (1922-1985) (after) - "Marilyn Monroe (Red Lips)"

- Giclée print on smooth matte paper (approx. 200gsm, refers to paper thickness/density).

- 2010. Copyright Joshua Greene.

- Condition: excellent. Never framed, never exposed.

- Size: 40x40 cm.

- Marilyn Monroe, photographed by Milton H. Greene, appears here in one of the photographer’s most recognisable close-up portraits, reproduced in this art print under the title Marilyn Monroe (Red Lips). The composition is reduced to its essential elements: Monroe’s face and bare shoulders emerge against a deep black background, while her platinum hair and luminous skin create a dramatic tonal contrast. The selective red colouring of the lips becomes the visual focal point, intensifying the image’s combination of glamour, sensuality and vulnerability. Greene was one of the photographers who worked most closely with Monroe during the 1950s, and his portraits are notable for presenting her not simply as a Hollywood sex symbol but as a more intimate and psychologically complex figure. This print preserves that balance between iconic star image and personal presence, while the near-monochrome treatment gives the photograph a timeless graphic quality.

Decoratively, the image is especially versatile because of its restrained palette. The black background and pale tones work beautifully against cream, taupe, soft grey, burgundy, deep green or petrol-blue walls, while the red lips provide a small but powerful accent of colour. A black frame would create a clean contemporary presentation, whereas silver, champagne or antique gold could reinforce its classic Hollywood character. It suits elegant living rooms, bedrooms, dressing areas, boutiques, offices or interiors inspired by mid-century glamour, photography and fashion. Its instantly recognisable subject also makes it an attractive gift for admirers of Marilyn Monroe, classic cinema, vintage photography and twentieth-century style.

Milton H. Greene’s portraits of Monroe occupy an important place in the history of celebrity photography, combining studio sophistication with a degree of intimacy that distinguishes them from conventional publicity imagery. This image therefore appeals not only to Monroe admirers but also to enthusiasts of fashion photography, Hollywood iconography and Pop culture, with natural connections to Warhol, Basquiat, Haring, Hockney, Banksy, Shepard Fairey, Kaws, Cartier, Rolex, Patek Philippe, Chanel, Dior, Hermès, Gucci, Lego, Star Wars and Pokémon. More than a glamorous portrait, Marilyn Monroe (Red Lips) distils the enduring power of Monroe’s image into an exceptionally simple and memorable visual statement.