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Burlesque Collection

"Unveiling the Art of Burlesque: A Journey through Time and Entertainment" Step into a world where sensuality meets satire

Background imageBurlesque Collection: THONY: NACKTKULTUR, 1926. Nacktkultur (Nudism). Drawing by Eduard Thony

THONY: NACKTKULTUR, 1926. Nacktkultur (Nudism). Drawing by Eduard Thony

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Music Hall Song / Parcel

Music Hall Song / Parcel
A burlesque ballad: who knows what a parcel may contain? An abandoned baby, a pawned overcoat, a strippers costume, a dog for drowning... Date: 1894

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Music cover, Pas de Quatre, Faust Up To Date

Music cover, Pas de Quatre, Faust Up To Date
Music cover, Pas de Quatre, invented and arranged by John d Auban from Faust Up To Date, a burlesque parody of Gounods opera Faust, performed at The Gaiety Theatre, London, composed by Meyer Lutz

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Cartoon, Miss Harriett Vernon in The P)rince of Japs

Cartoon, Miss Harriett Vernon in The P)rince of Japs
Cartoon, Miss Harriett Vernon (1858-1923), English actress and singer, as Cammpi in The Japs, or The Doomed Daimio, a burlesque by Harry Paulton and Mostyn Teddea. 1885

Background imageBurlesque Collection: 1930's Burlesque Performer

1930's Burlesque Performer
Harry Wentworth

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Gaby Deslys, 1915

Gaby Deslys, 1915
Celebrated French actress and music hall artiste Gaby Deslys (1881-1920), pictured in stage costume for her role of Lady Lil in the new burlesque at the Duke of Yorks Theatre in London, Rosy Rapture

Background imageBurlesque Collection: A dancer in a burlesque theatre

A dancer in a burlesque theatre
2628586 A dancer in a burlesque theatre.; (add.info.: An American illustration of a dancer in a burlesque theatre, 1870.); Universal History Archive/UIG.

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Around the World in Eighty Days, 1875

Around the World in Eighty Days, 1875
1579968 Around the World in Eighty Days, 1875; (add.info.: Around the World in Eighty Days. On August 28, 1875, the Kiralfy Brothers put up)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Chimpanzee expressions (engraving)

Chimpanzee expressions (engraving)
8672590 Chimpanzee expressions (engraving) by Donnison, Thomas Edward (1861-1903); Private Collection; (add.info.: Chimpanzee expressions: melodrama, comedy, tragedy and burlesque)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: The Arabian nights, or Aladdin's wonderful lamp, 1916 (poster)

The Arabian nights, or Aladdin's wonderful lamp, 1916 (poster)
2912281 The Arabian nights, or Aladdin's wonderful lamp, 1916 (poster); (add.info.: The Arabian nights, or Aladdin's wonderful lamp)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Cavaugh, Lucile, Miss, portrait photograph, 1917 May 10. Creator: Arnold Genthe

Cavaugh, Lucile, Miss, portrait photograph, 1917 May 10. Creator: Arnold Genthe
Cavaugh, Lucile, Miss, portrait photograph, 1917 May 10

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Carise, Erna, Mme. with dog, portrait photograph, 1928 Creator: Arnold Genthe

Carise, Erna, Mme. with dog, portrait photograph, 1928 Creator: Arnold Genthe
Carise, Erna, Mme. with dog, portrait photograph, 1928

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Portrait of Eddie Davis and Sherry Britton, Leon and Eddie's, New York, N.Y. ca. July 1948

Portrait of Eddie Davis and Sherry Britton, Leon and Eddie's, New York, N.Y. ca. July 1948

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Portrait of Lois de Fee, Club Nocturne, New York, N.Y. ca. July 1948. Creator: William Paul Gottlieb

Portrait of Lois de Fee, Club Nocturne, New York, N.Y. ca. July 1948. Creator: William Paul Gottlieb
Portrait of Lois de Fee, Club Nocturne, New York, N.Y. ca. July 1948

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Burlesque Theatre, Times Square, early 1940s. Creator: Edward Hopper

Burlesque Theatre, Times Square, early 1940s. Creator: Edward Hopper
Burlesque Theatre, Times Square, early 1940s

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Affiche pour les Folies-Bergère, 'la Loïe Fuller'. c1897. Creator: Jules Cheret

Affiche pour les Folies-Bergère, "la Loïe Fuller". c1897. Creator: Jules Cheret
Affiche pour les Folies-Bergere, "la Loie Fuller". c1897. [Publisher: Imprimerie Chaix; Place: Paris]

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Inconvenient Partners in Waltzing, 1817/19. Creator: Isaac Robert Cruikshank

Inconvenient Partners in Waltzing, 1817/19. Creator: Isaac Robert Cruikshank
Inconvenient Partners in Waltzing, 1817/19

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Wallsend based stripper Danielle performing her burlesque routine in a North East

Wallsend based stripper Danielle performing her burlesque routine in a North East workingmans club. Monday 8th December, 1980

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Ida Barr music hall singer 1882-1967

Ida Barr music hall singer 1882-1967
Ida Barr (Maud Barlow) music hall singer and burlesque actress. With Wee Georgie Wood in this image. Signed card. Date: circa 1920s

Background imageBurlesque Collection: The Silver Slipper Casino on the Strip in Las Vegas circa 1970s

The Silver Slipper Casino on the Strip in Las Vegas circa 1970s

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Marion Hood, actor singer in Ruy Blas burlesque

Marion Hood, actor singer in Ruy Blas burlesque
Marion Hood, actor singer in Ruy Blas and the Blas ouÚáít the Gaiety Theatre, London, a burlesque which ran for 289 performances. 1889

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Gypsy Rose Lee, American burlesque entertainer

Gypsy Rose Lee, American burlesque entertainer
Gypsy Rose Lee (Rose Louise Hovick, 1911-1970), American burlesque entertainer, actress, author and playwright, famous for her striptease act. 20th century

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Nelly Power music hall singer 1854-1887

Nelly Power music hall singer 1854-1887
Nelly (Nellie) Power music hall singer, burlesque actress and early male impersonator. On the back of the photograph is printed ?Saturday Programme Supplement February 5th 1876?. Date: 1876

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Night view of the famous El Molino cabaret theatre, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

Night view of the famous El Molino cabaret theatre, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

Background imageBurlesque Collection: SALLY RAND (1904-1979). American burlesque dancer. Photographed in 1933

SALLY RAND (1904-1979). American burlesque dancer. Photographed in 1933

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Spirit of Burlesque, 1868 (print)

Spirit of Burlesque, 1868 (print)
3672806 Spirit of Burlesque, 1868 (print) by American School, (19th century); Newberry Library, Chicago, Illinois, USA; (add.info)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: The Guards Burlesque 'Fra Diavolo'at the Chelsea Barracks;'Zerlina'(Miss Rose Hawdon... 1890)

The Guards Burlesque "Fra Diavolo"at the Chelsea Barracks;"Zerlina"(Miss Rose Hawdon... 1890)
The Guards Burlesque " Fra Diavolo" at the Chelsea Barracks; " Zerlina" (Miss Rose Hawdon) performing the " Shadow Dance". 1890

Background imageBurlesque Collection: The Three Graces (pen, ink and w / c on paper)

The Three Graces (pen, ink and w / c on paper)
CH139962 The Three Graces (pen, ink and w/c on paper) by Barbier, Georges (1882-1932); 31.5x26.2 cm; Private Collection; Photo © Christies Images

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Illustration of Pantagruel by Francois Rabelais (1493-1553), c. 1915 (lithograph)

Illustration of Pantagruel by Francois Rabelais (1493-1553), c. 1915 (lithograph)
CHT207451 Illustration of Pantagruel by Francois Rabelais (1493-1553), c.1915 (lithograph) by Blanche, Emmanuel (1880-1946); Private Collection; (add.info)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: In Armides Gardens, The Ballet of the Queen of Roses - illustration from la Vie Parisienne

In Armides Gardens, The Ballet of the Queen of Roses - illustration from la Vie Parisienne, 1913 (litho)
3033164 In Armides Gardens, The Ballet of the Queen of Roses - illustration from la Vie Parisienne, 1913 (litho) by Brunelleschi

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Mr David Garrick in drag in the character of Sir John Brute in John Vanbrughs The Provok d Wife

Mr David Garrick in drag in the character of Sir John Brute in John Vanbrughs The Provok d Wife, Drury Lane Theatre
6337803 Mr David Garrick in drag in the character of Sir John Brute in John Vanbrughs The Provok d Wife, Drury Lane Theatre, Garrick was an English actor, playwright, theatre manager and producer

Background imageBurlesque Collection: The Purchase (pen, ink and w / c on paper)

The Purchase (pen, ink and w / c on paper)
CH139952 The Purchase (pen, ink and w/c on paper) by Barbier, Georges (1882-1932); 33.3x24.8 cm; Private Collection; Photo © Christies Images

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Toys for everyone - illustration from la Vie Parisienne, 1918 (litho)

Toys for everyone - illustration from la Vie Parisienne, 1918 (litho)
3033165 Toys for everyone - illustration from la Vie Parisienne, 1918 (litho) by Couderc, Fernand (fl.1920s); Private Collection; (add.info.: Des Joujoux pour tout le Monde); Prismatic Pictures

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Marion Hood, English actor and singer (colour litho)

Marion Hood, English actor and singer (colour litho)
7185608 Marion Hood, English actor and singer (colour litho) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Marion Hood, English actor and singer)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Nellie Farren, English actress and singer (colour litho)

Nellie Farren, English actress and singer (colour litho)
7185606 Nellie Farren, English actress and singer (colour litho) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Nellie Farren)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Sylvia Grey, English actress and singer (colour litho)

Sylvia Grey, English actress and singer (colour litho)
7185610 Sylvia Grey, English actress and singer (colour litho) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Sylvia Grey, English actress and dancer)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Fred Storey, English actor and dancer (colour litho)

Fred Storey, English actor and dancer (colour litho)
7185615 Fred Storey, English actor and dancer (colour litho) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Fred Storey, English actor and dancer)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Alice Young, English actress (colour litho)

Alice Young, English actress (colour litho)
7185613 Alice Young, English actress (colour litho) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Alice Young, English actress, as an Officer in Ruy Blas and the Blase Roue)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: A Herald (colour litho)

A Herald (colour litho)
7185618 A Herald (colour litho) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: A Herald in Ruy Blas and the Blase Roue)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Blanche Massie, English actress (colour litho)

Blanche Massie, English actress (colour litho)
7185611 Blanche Massie, English actress (colour litho) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Blanche Massie, English actress, as Tarara in Ruy Blas and the Blase Roue)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Lily Harold, English actress (colour litho)

Lily Harold, English actress (colour litho)
7185614 Lily Harold, English actress (colour litho) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Lily Harold)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Letty Lind, English actress and singer (colour litho)

Letty Lind, English actress and singer (colour litho)
7185612 Letty Lind, English actress and singer (colour litho) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Letty Lind, English actress and singer)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Fred Leslie, English actor and singer (colour litho)

Fred Leslie, English actor and singer (colour litho)
7185609 Fred Leslie, English actor and singer (colour litho) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Fred Leslie, English actor and singer)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: A golf burlesque performed by golfers at the West Herts Clubs annual dinner (litho)

A golf burlesque performed by golfers at the West Herts Clubs annual dinner (litho)
3627088 A golf burlesque performed by golfers at the West Herts Clubs annual dinner (litho) by Manton, G. Grenville (1855-1932); Private Collection; (add.info)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Portrait of Lydia Thompson, c. 1865 (photo)

Portrait of Lydia Thompson, c. 1865 (photo)
3666801 Portrait of Lydia Thompson, c.1865 (photo) by Sarony, Napoleon (1821-96); Private Collection; (add.info.: Lydia Thompson (1838 - 1908), was an English dancer, comedian, actress

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Escamillo (colour litho)

Escamillo (colour litho)
5197985 Escamillo (colour litho) by Anderson, Percy (1850-1928); Private Collection; (add.info.: Escamillo. Illustration for Carmen Up To Data, A Souvenir of the Gaiety Theatre)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Scene from the New Burlesque of 'Columbus, 'at the Gaiety Theatre (engraving)

Scene from the New Burlesque of "Columbus, "at the Gaiety Theatre (engraving)
1104041 Scene from the New Burlesque of " Columbus, " at the Gaiety Theatre (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info)

Background imageBurlesque Collection: Two dancers: Virginia Marvin - left - and Barbara

Two dancers: Virginia Marvin - left - and Barbara
Two dancers in 1927: Virginia Marvin (left) had been with Mikhail Mordkin as solo dancer and in the Eastern tour company of the Shubert Operetta My Maryland




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"Unveiling the Art of Burlesque: A Journey through Time and Entertainment" Step into a world where sensuality meets satire, as we explore the captivating realm of burlesque. From its early origins to its glamorous heyday, this art form has enthralled audiences for centuries. In 1926, Thony's Nacktkultur drawing showcased the audacious spirit of nudism intertwined with burlesque, pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms. Miss Harriett Vernon in "The Prince of Japs" cartoon brought laughter and delight to spectators during the 1930s. Music halls echoed with enchanting melodies like "Parcel, " while music covers such as "Pas de Quatre" transported us into a whimsical world inspired by Faust Up To Date. Gaby Deslys' mesmerizing performances in 1915 left audiences spellbound, embodying the true essence of burlesque. The spirit was captured in an iconic print from 1868, reminding us that this art form has always been about embracing individuality and celebrating self-expression. Ida Barr's powerful voice reverberated through music halls from 1882 to 1967, leaving a lasting legacy on stage. Marion Hood took center stage as an actor-singer in Ruy Blas burlesque, showcasing versatility and talent within this unique genre. Gypsy Rose Lee became an icon in American burlesque entertainment with her seductive charm and captivating performances. Nelly Power's enchanting presence graced music halls from 1854 to 1887, leaving behind a trail of awe-inspired admirers. Victorian scraps depicted three women adorned in elaborate costumes that epitomized the allure and elegance associated with burlesque. Burlesque is more than just feathers and sequins; it represents empowerment, freedom of expression, and breaking down societal barriers.