Peter Lindbergh: Known and "The Unknown"

Peter Lindbergh can lay claim to some of the most iconic fashion images of the past century. Indeed, a brilliant imagemaker is one whose work can be distinguished by the Lindebergh trademarks: simplicity (sans props and exotic location), a monochrome palette, iconic models and subtle nudity. His photographs also define key fashion moments – a bare-faced Kate Moss in denim dungarees, his girls on a beach in crisp white Yamamoto shirts.

Born in Germany, at 19, Lindbergh hitchhiked to Arles to visit the hometown of his idol, artist Vincent Van Gogh. After studying painting, he began his career assisting Düsseldorf-based photographer, Hans Lux, before relocating to Paris to begin his own career in 1978, shooting for international Vogue titles and creating films. In 1988, Anna Wintour arrived at American Vogue, signing Lindbergh straight away and enlisting him to shoot her first cover.

"The Unknown is a timeless story in a visual space that references the glamour of Hollywood, the German cinema of Fritz Lang and science fiction"

Whilst Lindbergh's editorial and campaign images are well-known, Galleria Carla Sozzani's current retropspective of the photographer provides a fascinating insight into his personal work. The two-part show, entitled Known and "The Unknown", presents 40 portraits of Naomi, Linda, Kristen, Kate et al alongside Linbergh's personal project and accompanying research. Featuring Milla Jovovich. A visual journey with no order or chronology, going through decades of images, the work was inspired by Lindbergh's recent movie series Invasion. A powerful retrospective of a great artist's work, Known and "The Unknown" is a timeless story in a visual space that references the glamour of Hollywood, the German cinema of Fritz Lang and science fiction.

Peter Lindbergh: Known and "The Unknown" runs until November 4 at Galleria Carla Sozzani in Milan.

Text by Laura Bradley