Marilyn Monroe Print by Milton Greene, 1954

This original photograph of Marilyn Monroe was taken by photographer Milton Greene in 1954 during one of the most celebrated portrait sessions of her career. Known as the Ballet Sitting, the image captures Monroe poised in a delicate tulle ballet costume, seated gracefully and gazing directly toward the camera.

The photograph reflects Greene’s unique ability to reveal both Marilyn Monroe’s vulnerability and her strength. Unlike the highly constructed studio images of the era, Greene’s portraits emphasized Monroe’s natural presence and emotional depth.

This particular image achieved extraordinary recognition. Time, Inc. later selected it as one of the three most popular and enduring photographs of the twentieth century, affirming its place among the most iconic portraits ever created.

Milton Greene’s professional and personal relationship with Marilyn Monroe marked one of the most important creative partnerships of her life. His photographs helped redefine her public image, presenting her not merely as a studio star, but as a complex and self aware artist.

This original print was donated to The Marilyn Monroe Collection by the Milton Greene Archives, preserving a photograph that remains one of the definitive visual representations of Marilyn Monroe.

Historical Significance: The Ballerina Sitting

The Ballet Sitting session took place during a pivotal period in Marilyn Monroe’s career. In 1954, she had begun distancing herself from Twentieth Century Fox and forming her own production company. Milton Greene became one of her closest collaborators and confidants during this transformation.

The photographs from this session remain among the most widely published and recognized images of Marilyn Monroe ever created.