Yousuf Karsh, master photographer of the 20th century
1962
This portrait was taken under the most difficult conditions. We had very little time, and the only place available was a corner of Mr. King’s church. Nowhere could he relax when constantly beset by friends and aides wishing him well, commiserating on his difficulties, congratulating him upon his return, planning new strategy. What emerged in my mind and, I trust, in the portrait, was the dedication of the man and his clear vision of ultimate victory.
During his career he held 15,312 sittings, produced over 370,000 negatives, and left an indelible artistic and historic record of the men and women who shaped the twentieth century.
Yousuf Karsh’s (1908-2002) extraordinary and unique body of work presents the viewer with an intimate and compassionate view of humanity.
The Bank of England chose Winston Churchill by Yousuf Karsh to appear on the front of its all-new polymer banknote, now in circulation across the UK.
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Toynbee was photographed as Director, Royal Institute of International Affairs.
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