Photographe: Michael Joseph
Date: Années quatre-vingt
Tirage argentique authentique.
Largeur de la photo : xx
Hauteur de la photo : xx
This photograph is a black-and-white image depicting a satirical and staged scene of men dressed as military officers or dictators in a formal, luxurious setting.
Here are the key details:
- Central Theme:
- The scene appears to resemble a comical or dramatic depiction of a military coup or authoritarian meeting. The title handwritten at the bottom of the image, « What to do in a Coup! » reinforces this satirical approach.
- The Characters:
- Front Left: A man in a military uniform aggressively gestures with his hand towards the camera, as if stopping or confronting someone. He has a serious expression.
- Left Center: Another man in military gear is seated, holding a cigar and appearing smug or relaxed, possibly mocking a dictator’s typical demeanor.
- Center: A third man, also in military attire, sits holding a cigar and stares blankly or authoritatively toward the viewer. He wears a distinctive military cap and sunglasses.
- Right Center: Behind them, a fourth man stands holding a machine gun, posing in a dramatic way with an exaggerated facial expression, as if playing up the scene’s absurdity.
- Far Right: A formally dressed man in a suit holds a cigar and looks directly at the camera with a calm and calculating demeanor. He appears to represent a « civilian » or mastermind type, perhaps someone orchestrating the coup.
- Setting and Props:
- The setting is an opulent, classical interior with decorative ceilings, curtains, and mirrors. The furniture is ornate, including a polished table laden with objects.
- On the table, there are various props such as:
- A telephone
- A silver ashtray
- A handgun (reminiscent of the coup or military theme)
- A decorative object in the center (possibly a clock or sculpture)
- Glassware and a decanter (suggesting indulgence or luxury)
- Documents and a cigar box
- In the background, a large framed painting or mirror is held up, adding another layer of theatricality to the scene.
- Handwritten Notes:
- Bottom Left: « What to do in a Coup! »
- Bottom Center: « Quel Magazine, New York – Late Sixties »
- Bottom Right: Signed with what appears to be « Michael » (potentially the artist or photographer’s signature).
- Tone and Style:
- The photograph is intentionally dramatic, humorous, and exaggerated. It employs theatrical poses, luxurious props, and military costumes to poke fun at political or authoritarian themes.
- The black-and-white style gives it a vintage or documentary feel, adding to its timeless satirical quality.
This image likely reflects a satirical commentary on power, military regimes, or political coups, staged in a playful and exaggerated manner.
