In 1969, South African photographer Norman Seeff met Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe, then young and relatively unknown, at Max's Kansas City, a popular New York club for artists and musicians.Struck by their presence, Seeff invited them to a photo session in a friend's apartment and studio on the Upper West Side.While the formal shoot produced some photos, the most iconic images emerged during a relaxed period when the three were simply hanging out.

These photographs capture the intimacy and depth of the relationship between Smith and Mapplethorpe, reflecting both the end of their romantic involvement and the start of a lifelong artistic partnership.One notable detail is Smith wearing the skull necklace she made for Mapplethorpe, a moment later referenced in her memoir 'Just Kids.

' Seeff's photos highlight authenticity and emotional resonance, documenting the pair at the very beginning of their journeys to becoming influential figures in New York's art scene.At this time, Mapplethorpe had yet to begin serious photography work, which he would start the following year with a Polaroid camera.The images provide a rare glimpse into the formative years of two artists who would go on to shape the cultural landscape.