Year: 1972 (13 april)
Publisher: Aidan Ellis Publishing, Henley-on-Thames
Edition: 1st English Edition
Language: EN
Pages: 143
Condition: G
Binding: HC, NO DJ
- "Woman" (1972) by Édouard Boubat is a deeply poetic visual ode to womanhood, perfectly capturing the essence of French humanist photography. Often referred to by writers and poets as a 'photographer of peace,' Boubat consciously chose to step away from the harsh realities of conflict. Instead, he dedicated his lens to capturing the tenderness, grace, and quiet joy found in everyday life.
The pages of this monograph take the viewer on a lyrical journey around the globe, spanning from the romantic streets of Paris to intimate encounters in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Boubat does not capture women as static or staged subjects; rather, he photographs them in fleeting, candid moments of introspection, warmth, and natural beauty. Whether it is a young girl daydreaming into the distance, a mother in her daily routine, or a fleeting glance shared in a crowd, every black-and-white image radiates a soft, respectful sensuality.
A central and deeply moving highlight of the book is the collection of iconic portraits featuring his great love and muse, Lella. The photographs Boubat took of her—most notably in Brittany—are celebrated today as some of the most romantic and devotional portraits in the history of classical photography. The profound chemistry, mutual trust, and vulnerability between the photographer and his subject are beautifully palpable on every page.
Ultimately, "Woman" transcends traditional documentary photography to become a timeless visual poem. It is a masterpiece that invites the viewer to slow down and perceive the world with the very same tenderness, wonder, and gratitude that Boubat held in his heart.
