Robert Mapplethorpe
ROBERT MAPPLETHORPE "LEIGH LEE / THE Z PORTFOLIO", 1980
Robert Mapplethorpe's place in the canon was earned from his incredible output of images that ranged from beautiful to brutal. Mapplethorpe was one of the key artists who helped elevate photography from image making, to an important element of fine art.
He fearlessly depicted the body (his own, friends' and lovers') in a way that positioned his work in line with masters such as Courbet, Bas Jan Ader, and Marina Abramovic.
Despite the sometimes shocking content of his work, Mapplethorpe's photographs possess a formalist quality and undeniable beauty and composition.
From 1978-1981, Mapplethorpe created thirty-nine black and white photographs that make up his acclaimed XYZ Portfolios. While each portfolio acts as a distinct exploration of Mapplethorpe's signature subject matter, when combined, XYZ Portfolios serves as a definitive and in-depth representation of his mature, and most sought-after, period.
Of the portfolios, X explores homosexuality and sadomasochism; Y features floral still life; while Z showcases luminous nude portraits of Black men.
In 2012, the XYZ Portfolios were shown in an exhibition at LACMA and presented in three rows (X on top, followed by Y in the middle, and Z below) as Mapplethorpe had envisioned in 1989.
"Leigh Lee" is one of thirteen images from the Z Portfolio, featuring a lithe and athletic male shot from behind. His statuesque figure is highlighted by sublime studio light. There is something both classical and contemporary in this image, especially considering his bleached hair. The model, his friend Leigh Lee, stands in front of two backdrops, the one on his right curled downward in a theatrical manner as if to personify Mapplethorpe's iconic Bond Street studio in this photograph.
This powerful black and white image is a prime example of Mapplethorpe's work, highlighting his studio-centric practice as well as his refined and revolutionary vision that was well beyond his years.
This is a rare opportunity to acquire an iconic work by one of the most influential photographers of the 20th Century. Caviar20 is proud to be offering this monumental and important piece.
Questions about this artwork? Contact us or call +1.416.704.1720
"Leigh Lee" (from the Z Portfolio)
USA, 1980
Silver print
From an edition of 25
Signed and numbered by the artist
7.5"H 7.25"W (image)
13.5"H 12.75"W (mount)
Very good condition
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