The real paparazzi

Masterpieces is a collection of gelatin silver prints by a selection of Italian photojournalists who collectively spawned the paparazzi-style of reportage photography in use today. These photographers had unparalleled access to stars – something that is no longer available without picture approval.

The shots show A-listers in real-life situations – Tazio Secchiaroli’s 1972 subject in this photograph is Sophia Loren atop an oil barrel, turning on the full wattage of her star power. It’s a subject a modern day advisor wouldn’t approve lest it be misinterpreted. It has an estimate of between €9,785 and €14,678, but entry level pieces start from €2,446.

Other well-known names captured on film include actress Jacqueline Bisset, director Alfred Hitchcock and Italian actor Marcello Mastroianni.

The sale takes place on June 12th in Christies' South Kensington sale room in London. For more, see Christies.com.