Bunny Yeager (American, 1929-2014) Bettie Page at Africa USA, 1954 Kodak Film negative 2-1/2 x 2-1/2 inches (6.3 x 6.3 cm) From the collection of Grapefruit Moon Gallery This is a stunning unique original 2 ¼ format camera negative of Bettie Page in her Jungle Bettie costume at Africa USA. The "Jungle Bettie" photoshoot is one of the most iconic collaborations between Bettie Page, the famous 1950s pin-up model, and Bunny Yeager, the photographer who helped define Bettie's sultry yet playful image. For the "Jungle Bettie" shoot, Bettie Page posed in a variety of jungle-themed outfits, including a leopard-print bikini and other animal-print accessories. These outfits highlighted her curvaceous figure and were both glamorous and exotic. The setting featured natural elements, like palm trees, greenery, and faux jungle props, giving the photos a wild, untamed atmosphere. Bettie Page's poses in this shoot were playful yet seductive, showcasing her ability to combine innocence with sensuality. She crouched, climbed, and stretched out on the ground, giving a sense of a wild jungle creature. The images also featured Bettie's signature bangs and jet-black hair, which contrasted sharply with the nature-themed backdrop. Bunny Yeager's photography style was groundbreaking in how she presented Bettie Page. Unlike many photographers of the era, Yeager, as a former model herself, had an intimate understanding of how to highlight a woman's beauty while maintaining a sense of agency and empowerment. The "Jungle Bettie" photos reflect this balance of strong femininity and allure. This shoot became one of Bettie Page's most memorable series and contributed to her lasting legacy as the quintessential pin-up queen of her era. The photos are playful, exotic, and timeless, capturing the spirit of 1950s pin-up culture with a unique and fresh perspective. Unique to this auction of Bunny Yeager material, copyright transfer paperwork for this lot can be requested directly from the consignor upon purchase. Please reach out sarahjaneb@ha.com with further questions. HID12401132022 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved
