A Brief History of the Pin-Up

From as far back as we are able to trace humans we have discovered carvings, inscriptions, paintings and sculptures of the female form. The Venus symbols have been admired, recreated and even worshiped for centuries.

In most ancient civilizations idealistic female forms were displayed, the images varied according to what was considered of great beauty in the different cultures.

The term "Pin-Up" was introduced into the English language in 1941 but the actual practice and art of Pin Up sprouted in the 1890's. Pin Up is a style of photo or painting where a beautiful women (often a well known celebrity) poses in a playful sensual way. Quite often the pictures were some sort of parody. Pin Up was a picture that you could literally pin up, such as a calendar.

One of the oldest and most talented artists of early Pin Up was Alberto Vargas (1896-1982)

He introduced the "Varga girls" series into America in the 1940s. Many world war two soldiers had the "Varga Girls" hanging in their lockers.

We appreciate the Art Of Pin Up and respect it for what it represents, an era in time where we had yet to have been bombarded with sexual images everywhere we glance. Where the subtle revealing and sensuality of a women was fresh and exciting. Pin Up is a true lost art that has been and continues to be rediscovered.

A few works by Vargas:



Click to enlarge for caption... "Can Anyone beat my pair?"