Robert Mapplethorpe (1946-1989) was an American photographer known for his controversial and provocative works, as well as his contributions to fine art photography. His career was marked by his exploration of themes related to sexuality, gender, and identity, often through stylized and highly detailed black-and-white images.Key aspects of Robert Mapplethorpe's life and work include:1. **Early Life and Artistic Beginnings:** Mapplethorpe was born in Floral Park, New York. He attended the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, where he studied art. Initially, he worked in mixed-media collage and assemblage before transitioning to photography.2. **Medium and Style:** Mapplethorpe's primary medium was photography, particularly black-and-white images. He was known for his precise and highly composed photographs, which often featured stark contrasts, geometric shapes, and an emphasis on form and texture.3. **Controversial Subjects:** Many of Mapplethorpe's works explored controversial and taboo subjects, such as homoeroticism, BDSM culture, and explicit sexuality. His frank and explicit images sparked debates about censorship and the boundaries of art.4. **Pioneering Studio Photography:** Mapplethorpe's studio portraits, often featuring friends, celebrities, and figures from the New York art scene, are highly regarded for their meticulous lighting and composition. His celebrity portraits include artists, musicians, and cultural icons.5. **Exploration of the Male Nude:** Mapplethorpe's photographs of the male nude form are notable for their aesthetic beauty and their challenging of traditional gender norms and perceptions of masculinity.6. **Exhibitions and Controversy:** Mapplethorpe's work gained widespread attention and controversy when it was exhibited in the late 1980s. The traveling exhibition "Robert Mapplethorpe: The Perfect Moment" became a focal point for debates on art, obscenity, and public funding for the arts.7. **Legacy and Influence:** Despite the controversies surrounding his work, Mapplethorpe's contributions to fine art photography are widely acknowledged. His meticulous approach to photography, exploration of taboo subjects, and impact on contemporary art have left a lasting legacy.8. **Illness and Death:** Mapplethorpe's career was cut short by illness. He was diagnosed with AIDS in 1986 and passed away in 1989 at the age of 42. His death drew attention to the AIDS crisis and its impact on the arts community.Robert Mapplethorpe's photography continues to be studied, discussed, and celebrated for its boldness and its impact on the world of fine art photography. His ability to capture the human form and explore complex themes through the lens of his camera has solidified his place in the history of contemporary art.
Measures 5.3 x 4.7 inches.
Made in France.
Porcelain.

Good condition. No major rips, tears, etc.