Henry Clarke’s 1968 Vogue Photography: Fashion in the Persian Water Gardens
Who Was Henry Clarke?
Henry Clarke (1913–1999) was a renowned American fashion photographer celebrated for his elegant and imaginative fashion spreads. His work for Vogue magazine in the 1950s and 1960s set standards in fashion photography, blending glamour with storytelling. Clarke’s distinctive style often involved lush settings, dramatic lighting, and a cinematic approach to fashion imagery.
The Context of the 1968 Vogue Photoshoot in Iran
In the late 1960s, Iran was experiencing a period of modernization under the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The country was opening up to Western influences, fostering a vibrant cultural scene, and attracting international attention. Vogue magazine, seeking to showcase global fashion trends and exotic locales, decided to undertake a groundbreaking project: a fashion shoot set amidst Iran’s historic and picturesque locations.
The Concept: Fashion Meets Persian Heritage
Clarke’s concept was to blend high fashion with Iran’s ancient cities and landscapes, emphasizing the country’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. The result was a series of stunning photographs featuring models dressed in luxurious couture, set against Iran’s iconic water gardens, Islamic architecture, and bustling markets.
