Known as “The father of South African photography”.
Jurgen is a principle figure in South African and global photographic history. His major body of work, which spans 70 years and incorporates a collection of some 250,000 negatives, captures a wealth of timeless and iconic imagery.
Schadeberg’s journey began in Berlin, but in 1950, he relocated to South Africa. Here, he joined Drum magazine as Chief Photographer, Picture Editor and Art Director.
It was during this time that Jurgen 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, Dr.Moroka, Walter Sisulu, Yusuf Dadoo, Bishop Huddleston, Archbishop Tutu and key events such as The Defiance Campaign of 1952, The Treason Trial of 1958, The Sophiatown Removals and the Sharpeville Funeral in1960.
His images also capture the jazz and literary world during the fifties Apartheid era such as the Sophiatown jazz scene with Dolly Rathebe, Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela and Kippie Moeketsi. He didn’t just document the beginnings of the freedom movement, the effects of apartheid, and the vibrancy of township life, but also became a mentor to many budding South African photographers, with the likes of Ernest Cole, Bob Kosani, Peter Kamalu.
In 2014 Jurgen was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Centre of Photography in New York and he was also awarded a Doctorate, Doctor Honoris Causa, by Valencia University Politecnica for his Life’s work.
Together, with his producer wife Claudia, Jurgen established The Schadeberg Movie Company to produce a series of some 15 documentaries and dramas about South African social, cultural and political history, including “Voices from Robben Island 1994” with BBC’s Arena.
His vast collection of photography has found a place in the esteemed collections of the UK Arts Council, National Portrait Gallery, Tate, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. His contributions to the field of photography have been recognised with numerous awards, including the prestigious Leica Hall of Fame award.
Even though Schadeberg is no longer with us, his timeless images continue to resonate and inspire, serving as a window into a significant era of history. His legacy lives on, touching the hearts and minds of those who encounter his work.
Cornell Capa Lifetime Achievement Award (2014)
Presented by the International Center of Photography (ICP) in New York, this award recognized Schadeberg’s profound impact on documentary photography.
Leica Hall of Fame Award (2018)
Awarded by Leica Camera AG in Wetzlar, Germany, honoring his lifetime achievements in photography.
Officer’s Cross of the Order of Merit (Bundesverdienstkreuz 1. Klasse) (2007)
Conferred by the German President, acknowledging his contributions to photography and cultural documentation.
Honorary Doctorate (Doctor Honoris Causa) (2014)
Bestowed by the Polytechnic University of Valencia, Spain, recognizing his extensive body of work.
“Happy Hour” – Railowsky Foundation, Valencia, Spain (2020)
A collection of 33 black-and-white photographs capturing bar scenes across various countries from 1961 to 2006.
“Seen and Unseen” – Leica Galerie, Frankfurt, Germany (2017)
An exhibition showcasing Schadeberg’s extensive work documenting South African life.
“Mandela Photographs” – IG Metall Haus, Frankfurt, Germany (2016)
Featured iconic images of Nelson Mandela, including his return to Robben Island.
Retrospectives in South Africa (1996), Ireland (2000), Luxembourg (2006), and Germany (2005 & 2006)
These exhibitions highlighted Schadeberg’s extensive documentation of South African history and culture.
Schadeberg authored and contributed to over 30 photographic books, capturing various aspects of South African life:
The Black and White Fifties: Jürgen Schadeberg’s South Africa (2001)
A visual narrative of South Africa during the 1950s.
Voices from Robben Island (1994)
Documenting the history and stories from the infamous prison.
Witness: 52 Years of Pointing Lenses at Life (2004)
A retrospective of Schadeberg’s photographic journey.
Jazz, Blues & Swing: Six Decades of Music in South Africa (2007)
Celebrating South Africa’s rich musical heritage.
The Way I See It: A Memoir (2017)
An autobiographical account of his life and work.
Together with his wife, Claudia, Schadeberg produced numerous documentaries focusing on South African history and culture:
Voices from Robben Island (1994)
A 90-minute film co-produced with the BBC, exploring the stories of former inmates.
Have You Seen Drum Recently? (1989)
A 77-minute film revisiting the vibrant 1950s through the lens of Drum magazine.
Nelson Mandela and the Rise of the ANC
Chronicling Mandela’s journey and the African National Congress’s evolution.
Each image below is a hand-printed, signed original by Jürgen Schadeberg.
These are not mass-produced prints, each one is individually made in the darkroom using traditional photographic methods.
This meticulous process ensures a richness in tone and detail that digital prints simply cannot replicate.
Every print includes a certificate of authenticity signed by the artist or estate, verifying its provenance and collectible value.
Please email us for more information regarding available sizes, paper types, edition numbers, and printing dates.
