The Errant Æsthete

One of the true fashion icons of couture photography, Lillian Bassman, whose work appeared in Harper’s Bazaar beginning in the 1940’s will be exhibited at Staley-Wise Gallery in New York beginning February 14 through April 26. Bassman’s work is characterized by its elegance and grace, transforming her photographs into original works of art through darkroom techniques that blurred and bleached the images, investing them with poetry, mystery, and glamour.

The transformed photographs display extreme delicacy of gesture and quintessential femininity. Her emphasis on their beautiful arms and hands evoke an aura of romance and charm and are perfectly suited to the amazingly constructed and accessorized couture of the period.