The 1940s were the beginning of what some have called the golden age of physique photography. The bodybuilding craze got started prior to World War II, and when all those fit young men came home, things really took off. So the 40s is our theme today, and we start with a 1943 photo of Marvin Urvant by Lon of New York. Mr. Urvant was a private in the Army Air Force at the time. A version of this photo with a drawn in posing strap was on a cover Strength and Health that year.
Wow. This really "brings it together," with the handsome, well-built male, the setting, the uncomplicated pose...judicious oil job...a gem. And I'm glad there's no strap detracting from the masculinity of the shot. Big Dude
ReplyDeleteAmen!
DeletePlus it's a relatively rare outdoor shot by Lon Hanagan.
DeleteA Private with the persona of a Commander. Absolutely captivating photo. I love the prairie setting! Imagine, a warm summer day...
ReplyDeleteGreat comment!
DeleteNice sepia toned photo, reminds one of the sepia master of Seattle, John Arndt.
ReplyDeleteIt takes patience with the sun to get a good outdoor photograph, waiting for the proper time of day to get satisfactory results. Lon Hanagan was a master and a mentor in the physique genre.:)
Excellent series of the golden years….:)