MASTERS selects 3 gems that really shouldn't be missing from your coffee table. Each of these books offers a glimpse into the lives of different icons through unique imagery. Text: Fleur de Jong
Image: TASCHEN Books

Peter Lindbergh | Azzedine Alaïa

This book celebrates the artistic collaboration of Peter Lindbergh and Azzedine Alaïa. Azzedine was born in Jemmal and came to Paris in the years following Tunisia's independence. He quickly gained success as a couturier in the French capital and worked for Christian Dior, among others, before starting his own atelier at all. His clothes were worn by fashion icons such as Tina Turner, Naomi Cambell and Michelle Obama. Photographer Lindbergh uses black and white to signify the authenticity of the faces in front of his camera in the faces. Alaïa also had a penchant for black in his timeless designs. This book reunites two great talents who both made history in photography and fashion.

Check out the book here.

Harry Benson | Paul

This book provides an intimate look into the life of one of the greatest music legends of all time: Paul McCartney. From the Beatles tour of the U.S. to the quiet life on the family farm. Harry Benson is a Scottish photojournalist born in Glasgow. The photographer was commissioned to travel with The Beatles during their tour of America. This assignment boosted his career and granted him access to celebrities such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Michael Jackson. Benson's credo: "A good photograph is one that cannot be repeated. Through more than 100 photographs, many never before seen, you will follow the evolution of a superstar in this book.

Check out the book here.

Anton Corbijn | Depeche Mode

Dutch pride Anton Corbijn became known for his photographs of mostly rock musicians and other artists. In November 2020, the band Depeche Mode was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. When Dave Gahan received the honor, he thanked Anton Corbijn. Dave said the photographer came in at just the right time and made them look "cool. In addition to the photographs, the book includes sketches and designs of sets and album covers, handwritten captions and an extensive interview with Corbijn. 

Check out the book here.