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Description

Bunny Yeager (American, 1929-2014)
Jungle Bettie and Bunny with Cheetahs, 1954
Gelatin silver print, printed later
10 x 10 inches (25.4 x 25.4 cm) (image)
14 x 11 inches (sheet)
Signed and inscribed in pencil, verso.

From the collection of Grapefruit Moon Gallery
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. This shoot took place at the Miami attraction Africa USA in 1954, with Bunny Yeager capturing Bettie in a wild, jungle-like setting that would become one of her signature looks.
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.


Toward the end of her life, Bunny Yeager found the critical acclaim that had overlooked her for much of her career, with celebrated exhibitions at galleries in Florida and beyond, and a museum exhibition at the Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, PA. For these, Yeager reapproached her earlier work as works of fine art, creating museum quality exhibition sized prints such as the one seen here.


More information about Yeager, Bunny Artist.

Condition Report*: Overall excellent condition. Soft creasing in the margins. Sheet is loose, not framed.
*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.

Auction Info

Auction Dates
October, 2024
24th Thursday
Internet/Mail Bids: 25
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
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