Brassaï
1899–1984 · Hungary / France
The nocturnal lives of Paris.
The story
Born Gyula Halász, Brassaï settled in Paris and made the night a field of observation. Streets, cafés, dances and encounters form a portrait of the city that extends beyond its façades. He also photographed graffiti, studios and artistic circles. His practice combined images and writing. Shadows, mist and artificial lighting give visual form to the different social worlds he frequented.
Understanding the work
Compare scenes of people with empty streets. Night changes visibility and distance: what appears mysterious can also be a place of work or social exchange.
Key works and series
Paris de nuit; graffiti; portraits and artists’ studios.
Sources & further exploration
Works in collections.
10 recordsPhotographs to explore on museum and library websites, with titles, dates and processes. Each link opens the collection record and its image where one is available.
- MoMA · c. 1932
The Chinaman and Young Toughs in a Bistro near the Place d'Italie
Gelatin silver print
- MoMA · 1934
Avenue de l'Observatoire. (Brouillard sur Paris, avenue de l'Observatoire)
Gelatin silver print
