Colonels italiens pour le magazine américain Quest quoi faire dans un coup d'état par Michael Joseph

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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).
5. 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.