Hot Event - Shemelis Desta's Ethiopian Archive 13 Sep-11 Nov 2007

From Emperor to Military Dictator: Shemelis Desta's Ethiopian Archive (1963-1982) at The Photographer's Gallery. (FREE EXHIBITION)

From the early 60’s until deposition Desta was Haile Selassie’s, Emperor of Ethiopia 1930 – 1974, official court photographer. During this time he took photographs of State leaders, including a youthful Queen Elizabeth II, paying their respects. Following the infamous 1974 military coup and subsequent deposition of the Emperor, Desta continued to record government activity under the rule of the military dictator, Mengistu Haile Mariam. Desta captured the colourful pageantry of state military processions as well as a state visit from Fidel Castro.

This exhibition celebrates the discovery of a monumental archive whilst telling the story of two amazing eras from a country renowned for its rich culture, tradition and history.

The Photographer's Gallery presents a selection of images from the archive of the Ethiopian court photographer, Shemelis Desta. Click here to download Exhibition Notes for schools and families.More

For Directions & other info http://www.photonet.org.uk/index.php?plid=851

All images © Shemelis Desta / Courtesy Autograph ABP