File this one under Creepy Cute -- more emphasis on the creepy. What we wouldn't give to have free reign over the files in the Library of Congress for a day. Their Prints & Photographs division has a collection of photographs by Harry W. Frees. This image, Playtime, is from that collection.
Photos of Anthropomorphic Pets, C. 1914
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Frees' work features animals in various "domestic situations". These situations include chopping wood, hauling other animals in wheelbarrows and washing up. How many dog owners wish their dogs would bathe each other?
Doing a little research on Mr. Frees, we discovered that his oeuvre consisted of more than just dogs and cats. Rabbits, pigs got a shot a being America's Next Top Model as well, but it was heard that pigs were difficult subjects. Divas!
And were the shots easy to accomplish? According to Frees himself, "These unusual photographs of real animals were made possible only by patient, unfailing kindness on the part of the photographer at all times."
Via: Clusterflock.
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??????????????? Creepy is an understatement. I guess it's the style and age of the images that contribute to the creepiness factor. At least he comments on being patient and gentle with the animals. I doubt I would bat an eye if you had discussed a modern photographer doing this. I think.....dunno.
view annaland's profile
heh, i think they are cute.
to annaland: as for modern photogs doing something similar...william wegman ring a bell?
view bitsandbobbins's profile
That was my point, not how many or who, just that I don't raise my eyebrows to them the same way I did to this. Pointing out my own double standard was all.
view annaland's profile
They might seem less creepy in the context of the storybooks they were printed in which I find very sweet. You can find them at Hanna and Me: http://www.hannaandme.com
view CMcB's profile
I had these books when I was tiny, late fifties, and loved them. I remember them so vividly, because I kept them into adulthood and have lost them and was just wondering yesterday how I could get another! The puppies were named Wags Tags and Obediah. One was in a little airplane. I love Wegman too.
view Kate (NC)'s profile
CMcB, Thanks a million for that link! I have a two week vacation with my almost 1 and 3 year old grandkids coming up. I can't wait to hold them and read the Four Little Puppies.
view Kate (NC)'s profile
An old relative gave me one of these books when I was a kid in the 70s and I LOVED it. When I had my son three years ago all I could remember was that the cat was named Agamemnon....thank God for Google and eBay, cause now it's one of my son's bedtime faves. It's actually very sweet and old fashioned. We both enjoy it. It's funny though, a lot of people have the 'creepy' reaction when they see it.
view memamc's profile