Notes

"We believe it was Mandela’s first official visit after his release from prison in 1990 and obviously an emotional visit when he returned to the 2 by 2,5m cell where he spent 18 years of his 27-year sentence. This was where he studied, did pushups, and reflected on the goal of the liberation of his people. He looked out of the bars and when he thought I had finished taking pictures, relaxed somewhat, and turned around to smile. This assignment was done on an independent basis." –Jürgen Schadeberg

Jürgen Schadeberg was born in Berlin. In 1950 he emigrated to South Africa and became Chief Photographer, Picture Editor, and Art Director at Drum Magazine. It was during this time that Schadeberg photographed pivotal moments in the lives of South Africans in the fifties. These photographs represent the life and struggle of South Africans during Apartheid and include important figures in South Africa’s history such as Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, Yusuf Dadoo, and many others. He documented key moments such as the Defiance Campaign of 1952; the Treason Trial of 1958; the Sophiatown Removals and the Sharpeville Funeral in 1960. Schadeberg is a principal figure in South African and World Photography. His major body of work, which spans 70 years and incorporates a collection of some 200,000 negatives, captures a wealth of iconic images that push for social change.

Provenance

Donated by the artist.