We start the week on a good note with news that PAN listed photo library United Archives has acquired the archive of photographer Tassilo Leher (1940–2023).
Leher, the son of war correspondent Karl Leher, became a prominent figure in East German photography, capturing stars like Phudys, Karat, and international icons such as Dean Reed and Karel Gott. His notable works include photographing Louis Armstrong’s 1963 East Germany tour and winning a silver medal at a Soviet press festival in 1966. United Archives’ acquisition solidifies its role in preserving Germany’s photographic history.
Born in the dark years of World War II, Tassilo Leher became an icon of photographic art in divided Germany. As the son of war correspondent Karl Leher, whose lens captured moments of contemporary history, he was born in 1940 in the heart of Berlin. He shared not only the studio in the picturesque Prenzlauer Berg with his father, but also the mysterious world of the darkroom. While Karl Leher, an early riser, made use of the morning hours, Tassilo found his creative flow only by midday, often working late into the night.
His camera knew no bounds: from the dazzling stars of East German show business like Phudys, Karat, Hildegard Kneef, Manfred Krug, Bubi Scholz, to international greats such as Dean Reed, Karel Gott, Jiri Korn, and Costa Cordalis – all found themselves in front of his lens.
View all United Archives news on PAN.