This portfolio presents George S. Zimbel’s rare photographs of Marilyn Monroe during the filming of The Seven Year Itch in New York City on September 15, 1954. The famous scene of Monroe standing above a subway grate as her white dress billowed became one of the most iconic images of the 20th century. Yet Zimbel’s camera revealed more than spectacle — it captured the human being behind the Hollywood legend.

At only 25 years old, Zimbel was armed with his Leica camera and a determination to find truth in the middle of a media frenzy. While most photographers pressed forward for smiling images, he found himself pushed behind the police line, gaining a unique vantage point. From this position, he created photographs such as Serious Marilyn, which show the actress in a rare, contemplative moment. These works highlight Monroe not just as a star, but as an artist under pressure, a wife under scrutiny, and a woman seeking recognition for her craft.

The portfolio includes memorable frames such as Marilyn Arrives, Marilyn and Billy Wilder, and the haunting Serious Marilyn. Each image demonstrates Zimbel’s lifelong pursuit: to reveal the humanity behind the performance.

Zimbel’s Monroe photographs have been exhibited internationally and are represented by leading institutions and galleries, including the Stephen Bulger Gallery in Toronto and Catherine Couturier Gallery in Houston.

Collectors may view and acquire signed prints through our online store or by contacting our gallery partners. This portfolio stands as both a cultural document and a testament to George S. Zimbel’s compassionate eye, making it one of the most significant Marilyn Monroe photography series available to collectors today.