Fashion photographer Jeanloup Sieff, who was favored by Yves Saint Laurent, is renowned for sensual yet refined photos, many of which have now become iconic images. He was often commissioned by prestigious fashion publications, such as Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, and he worked on many global marketing campaigns for high-end brands such as Chanel. He died in 2000 at the age of 66, and is said to have been one of the most prominent fashion photographers of his generation.
One of the main works of this exhibition is Sieff's 1971 photo of Saint Laurent. The image, which was used to launch the very first Yves Saint Laurent fragrance for men, made Saint Laurent and Sieff's names synonymous with a breakthrough in male sexuality in fashion — the use of male nudity in a non-macho manner. Several other noted portraits from Sieff's photographic career will also be on display; till July 31.
Institut Franco-Japonais de Tokyo et Yokohama, (03) 5206-2500, 15 Ichigaya-funagawara, Shinjuku-ku; 4-min. walk from Exit B3/B2a, Iidabashi Station (JR, Metro and Toei lines), Mon. 12 p.m.-8 p.m., Tue. 9.30 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 9.30 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun. 9.30 a.m.-6 p.m. Free admission. Closed Wed.-Fri. www.institut.jp..
