Herb Ritts (b.1952-2002) was a Los Angeles-born photographer acclaimed for his celebrity portraits, nudes, and fashion photography since the 1970s. 

Ritts’ dynamic career defied boundaries between the fields of art and commerce, while his influential photographs blurred the lines between documentary and fantasy. 

His approach to portraiture and fashion photography is confident and minimal with an emphasis on the textural and sculptural qualities of the body. In the late 80s, his practice expanded beyond photography as he began directing major music videos and commercials. 

Ritts photographed many iconic supermodels and celebrities of the 1990s including Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, and Madonna to name a few. He also had countless features in the top fashion and pop culture publications including Vanity Fair, Vogue, and Rolling Stone. 

“Stefano Seated” is a wonderful example of Ritts’ ability to capture polished intimacy. The subject appears relaxed in the nude yet holds a modelesque grace posing with awareness of the camera. Like many Ritts photographs, this print is expertly rendered in contrasting tones of black and white.

Like the best of his work, this photograph epitomizes Ritts' acute attention to light, bold composition, and the elegance of the human body. 

In 2003, The Herb Ritts Foundation was founded following the artist's untimely death. The foundation continues the artist's philanthropic efforts and art activism in support of HIV/AIDS research and advocacy. The artist was the recipient of GLAAD Media's Pioneer Award in 2008.

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“Stefano Seated" 

Milan, 1985

Platinum Print 

From an edition of 25

Signed, titled, dated, and numbered in pencil, verso;

Blindstamped, l.r. 

19"H 14"W (visible)

20"H 16"W (image)

31.5"H 26"W (framed)

Very good condition.