Published by Silvana Editoriale. Edited with text by Philippe Ribeyrolles. Text by Silvia Paoli. Interview by Gilbert Brassaï.
After the publication of his photobook Paris de nuit (1933), Hungarian French photographer Brassaï (1899–1984) became inextricably linked with the City of Light. Yet his influence spread far beyond the French borders: from his collaboration with Edward Steichen to his 1957 exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art, New York. Curated by the photographer’s nephew, Philippe Ribeyrolles, The Eye of Paris revives Brassai’s body of work, offering a full overview of his evolution. Arranged thematically, it journeys through different views of the city as well as different facets of Brassaï’s oeuvre. “Paris by Day” and “Paris by Night” contain his most iconic photographs, from Paris landmarks to ordinary street scenes. One chapter focuses on graffiti, which he documented not only in Paris but across Europe. Another section explores Brassaï’s relationship with other Paris-based artists, including Colette, Matisse, Picasso, Leonor Fini and Germaine Richier. Peppered throughout with Brassaï’s sculptures and sketches, The Eye of Paris is a comprehensive look at the artist and the city he called home.
