Wednesday, January 02, 2013

Bettie Page, Uncensored

So many of Bettie Page's photos were shot in the classic pin-up style. It wasn't because she was modest or prude. Rather, the Comstock Law, which was started in the Victorian Era and still in effect in the 50s, could fine and imprison anyone who sent "lewd" photos through the US Mail. 

"Lewd" is a relative term, so the courts usually made the arbitrary line around pubic hair. If no pubic hair was visible, then it could be considered "artistic" nudity. However, showing pubic hair was sure to have it viewed as "pornographic." It was guaranteed to be confiscated and destroyed, and the publisher fined. It could even mean years in prison.

As a result, photographers and models of the time were very aware of the censorship, and the penalties that could be enforced. So it is a rare treat to see Bettie Page and her photographer relaxing and taking pictures for fun, unconcerned about the enforcers of the moral standards of the time.


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