Yousuf Karsh

A new exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery marks the 100th anniversary of photographer Yousuf Karsh.

Karsh was one of the most important portrait photographers of the twentieth century. Fascinated by 'greatness', Karsh photographed many eminent public figures, from world leaders to Hollywood stars, during a career that spanned seven decades.

A career defining opportunity came in 1941 when Karsh photographed Winston Churchill. It became one of the most famous portrait photographs of the century, and established Karsh as the photographer of society's top-rank. Celebrities and statesmen alike asked to be 'Karshed', a term coined by the World War II hero, Field Marshal Montgomery.

Karsh used pose and artificial lighting to imbue his sitters with a sense of timeless dignity, and to enhance their charismatic qualities. He also hoped that his portraits might reveal; 'the trace of the fierce competition characteristic of human affairs in our era; sometimes the gleam of arrogance'.

This fantastic exhibition runs from Tuesday January 15th to Sunday July 6th. The National Portrait Gallery is open daily from 10am to 6pm, except on Thursday when the gallery is open till 9pm.

Find out more about events at the National Portrait Gallery.

How to get there

The closest tube and train station to Trafalgar Square is Charring Cross. If on the bus the 3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, 23, 24, 29, 53, 87, 88, 91, 139, 159, 176 and the 453 all serve Trafalgar Square.

Images © estate of Yousuf Karsh