homobilia: art and memorabilia of the queer past

New at Homobilia.com: His Brother Love

2011-12-10T19:06:00.000-08:00

His Brother Love, a Satan Press Book by Russ Trainer, 1965.

Great cover art by Bilbrew.

"And all the characters churn together to answer the important question: what is the direction of heterosexuality while the pull of the homosexual exerts its overpowering force!"

The New Homobilia.com

2011-11-28T08:34:00.000-08:00

We're happy to announce our new site has launched in time for Cyber Monday! Please visit homobilia.com where you can find a growing collection of authentic vintage photos, magazines, and books for sale.

Today only, get 20% off your purchase!
Enter coupon code: cybermonday when you check out.

Don & Tony's 10 Anniversary Celebration, May 11, 1980

2010-06-26T10:48:00.000-07:00

A limited edition poster by Neon Cactus in Santa Monica documents the highlights in their relationship: parties, travel, campaigns, family, friends, protests, celebrations, blowjobs, etc. Sadly the end was near. Tony died of AIDS-related illness within a few years.

From a handwritten note (Don to Tony) on their 1st anniversary:

One year ago this night I was looking for someone to share the evening with me. The person I found (in the Mayfair parking lot) was you. And since that night we have been together. Our friendship grew, our love for one another grew; our faith in God also grew. One year, it's like a one year old baby -- and now our relationship must mature...

From a handwritten note (Don to Tony) on their 2nd anniversary:

The Red Tailed Hawk is a symbol of our love. Society or our culture tries to prevent it from maturing, and being lovers we also stand somewhat alone among the majority of gays. Yet as the cover [photo] shows the light from God- Nature- the gift of living will keep our love and [our] dreams grow every stronger.

Gay Pride: Remembering Don Amador

2010-06-19T12:21:00.000-07:00

One of the lesser-known gay heroes from the 1970's, Don Amador's life story might make a film rival to "Milk." In fact, Amador briefly appears in the movie, played by his friend, activist Cleve Jones.

Of course the big difference between Milk and Amador is Milk was actually elected to public office and, after his assassination, became a gay martyr. Amador failed to achieve his political ambitions and like many thousands of gay men, died of AIDS-related illness in the 1980s.

But in the late 1970s Amador was a big deal. Most of what I've been able to find out about him comes from a People Magazine profile from 1977. Born Donald Grace in 1941, considered a "sissy," he quit high school to join the Navy. After an honorable discharge he spent a year living in a monastery and converted to Catholicism.

In 1965 he reenlisted as a Navy recruiter and served under Chief Richard J. Amador. In 1971, Richard Amador (age 70) legally adopted Donald (age 28). This was one year after Amador "married" his lover, Tony Karnes, on the steps of Hollywood's Blessed Sacrament Church (they weren't permitted inside).

Amador served as L.A. mayor Tom Bradley's liaison to the gay community and became one of the first people to teach a class on Gay History (at Cal State University, 1976).

So that's the People Magazine version. A more intimate look at Don Amador and his spouse is coming shortly. Meanwhile, the photo above by Pat Rocco of them (on the left) with a group of friends, taken in 1979 at the March on Washington (Have you ever seen so many moustaches in one place?)

George Platt Lynes vintage photo at auction

2010-06-09T16:02:00.000-07:00

George Platt Lynes (American, 1907 - 1955). "Tattoos".
For those of you who always wanted to own a Platt Lynes photo bidding starts at just $300. Auction ends June 20th, 2010.

Good luck!

Showing of Man Bobbs

2010-05-28T15:38:00.001-07:00

Just to acknowledge that a) not every man in 1960 had a perfect body and b) not every eBay seller can spell "boobs."

More Bulging Belgian Beefcake

2010-05-28T11:29:00.000-07:00

Great vintage body builder c. 1910 in a classic pose. This real photo postcard is currently available on eBay, priced at $69.69.

One Man in a Tub

2010-05-21T19:29:00.000-07:00

Sleeping Beauty 2

2010-05-16T17:45:00.000-07:00

It's not hard to understand why somebody would take a picture of this beautiful man lying nearly naked, asleep on his bed. I can't help but wonder who took the photo? Was it the guy's mother? Was it a straight roommate thinking this'll be good for a laugh? Or was it a case of unrequited love (lust)... the buddy who longed to lay down on top of this perfect specimen-- but knew such a thing could never happen.

We'll never know but it resonates for me and speaks of my own experience as a closeted gay kid. Hell, I didn't even know I was "gay." I just knew that, when I saw a man like this I couldn't take my eyes off him. And if I was lucky enough to be able to get a picture of him without getting caught, I'd sure do it.

This snapshot was sold for $77 (a lot for a snapshot, very little for a fantasy) by Tanquerochicago.

Man Shaving

2010-05-16T10:17:00.000-07:00

He's obviously just gone for a swim. Now he stands on a rocky beach, still dripping wet, baggy shorts clinging to his thigh, lathered up, and along comes somebody with a camera.

Fortunately.

Polaroids from a San Francisco bathhouse 1978

2010-05-14T11:24:00.000-07:00

A never-before-seen glimpse into pre-AIDS gay sexual culture goes on view June 12, 2010 at drkrm/gallery in celebration of Gay Pride Month.

The Fairoaks Project is an exhibit of Polaroid photographs taken by Frank Melleno during the spring and summer of 1978 at The Fairoaks Hotel, a San Francisco bathhouse.

Melleno’s images capture an aspect of gay life rarely seen in snapshot photography: sexually candid encounters that are playful, spontaneous and often affectionate.

For more info visit: Drkrm/Gallery.

Male Nude: Maxalding

2010-05-10T17:21:00.000-07:00

From Wikipedia, we learned that Maxalding is an exercise system of muscle control using a form of isometrics. Books and pamphlets teaching the system were first published in 1909 and continued until the late 1970s.

Maxick, real name Max Sick(!) was a German strongman. He was born in Württemberg on June 28, 1892 and moved to Britain in 1909, where he met Monte Saldo. The Maxalding principles are based mainly on exercises and techniques which appeared in his book 'Muscle Control', written in 1911.

Monte Saldo was the professional name of Alfred Montague Woollaston who was apprenticed to the great Eugen Sandow in 1897. He took this stage name at the turn of the 20th century while touring Europe. He was also an artist's model and in 1914 he published a book called 'How to Pose'. He provided the financial means of promoting Maxick's methods and starting the Maxalding postal course.

This is just one of several images up for auction on eBayAustralia. Auction ends soon!

And check out this video featuring Maxick, Edward Aston, Monte Saldo and Eugene Sandow (suggestion: turn down the volume).

Male Nude: Sleeping Beauty

2010-05-09T13:59:00.000-07:00

To sleep perchance to dream... of seven cute guys watching, waiting, and pouncing... More Belgian beauties inhabit this undated black and white photo.

Bulging Belgians

2009-11-22T20:53:00.000-08:00

This photo's one of my all-time favorites. It comes from Belgium although it is undated and there's not much you can tell from the lack of uniforms.

War may be hell but there are moments of male bonding that just make it all worthwhile dammit.

2 Great Vintage Photos of Man Exercising

2009-11-15T10:17:00.000-08:00

Hurry, these two photos, and a handful more, are currently available on eBay. See seller wolfchris or click here.

3 vintage photos of athletes

2009-11-14T20:11:00.000-08:00

Short of giving him a cod piece, it's hard to see how a uniform could draw more attention to this football player's basket. Love the striped jersey too.

The back of this photo identifies the jock as Thurman Sanders, B.U.H.S. Basketball "34". Apparently this was when guys played lawn basketball. Whatever, he's sexy.

A bunch of nearly naked, sweaty athletes in the heat of competition. What's not to like?

Find these and lots more vintage gay photos at homobilia.com

Male Model

2009-11-08T13:42:00.000-08:00

"Don, a young man with a perfect body, found love where he least expected it, but Ted loved no one but himself -- and money!"

A French Line novel by Win Haven, published in 1967.

Haven't read it, never will. But the cover art! Can't get enough.

PAJAMA photo of nude Tennessee Williams

2009-10-22T16:09:00.000-07:00

Here's a rare find. Original PAJAMA (Paul Cadmus, Jared French, Margaret French) vintage gelatin silver print by Jared French (1905-1987) from the collection of Paul Cadmus (estate stamp to reverse).

A rare image of a nude Tennessee Williams (lower right) and Donald Windham to (upper left) dated 1943.
4 1/4" W x 6 1/2" H

You can bid on it now: http://www.ebthauctions.org/

Auction closes 8PM EST Saturday Oct 24, 2009.

Tejal Shah on Queer Arts Resource

2009-08-30T13:42:00.000-07:00

Tejal Shah is a dynamic force in the art world today and her highly personal work which probes gay, feminist, and transgender issues with intelligence and wit has been exhibited in major cities in Europe, South Asia and the US.

We invite you to visit her new gallery and share it with your friends.
http://www.queer-arts.org/

2 guys at the beach

2009-08-30T13:22:00.000-07:00

The Masculine Physique

2009-08-06T19:28:00.000-07:00

Gotta love this cover photo. Rare 1935 issue of The Masculine Physique (only 3000 copies printed). Act fast. You can still bid on it at eBay.

Affectionate Soldiers

2009-08-03T09:46:00.001-07:00

War is hell. That's why it is so important to enjoy some lighter moments, like bonding with your buddies. These Korean soldiers seem to be having a pretty good time. Do I sense perhaps a bit of an obsession with the crotchal area? Hmm.

Dorian Gray Movie Trailer

2009-07-27T14:59:00.000-07:00

Ben Barnes will play Oscar Wilde's iconic character Dorian Gray in an adaptation of the author's novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray.

Release date September 9th.

Behind the scenes video.

Men in Swimsuits

2009-07-26T18:34:00.000-07:00

Once again eBay has proven that there's a direct relationship between the size of a man's basket and the value of a photo. This nice but otherwise unexceptional photo from the 1920s sold for $151.49.

John Grimek photos

2009-07-18T11:45:00.000-07:00

Sold recently on eBay for a whopping $480, this early photo of body-building legend John Grimek dates from around 1935 (based on the Strength and Health magazine cover photo) when he was in his mid-20s.

It inspired me to go on a search of more early Grimek photos and here are the best images I found.

My Social Security Statement

2009-07-13T18:21:00.000-07:00

Dear Commissioner Asstrue,

Thanks so much for sending the Social Security Statement prepared "especially" for me. I do feel very special. But I really wish I was treated just like everyone else. That's why I support marriageequality.org and think you should too!

Sincerely,
Barry

p.s. you're hot!

Muscles Magazine: Dick DuBois

2009-07-12T10:35:00.000-07:00

The magnificent Dick DuBois. He's always been a favorite of mine, [he gets extra points for a name that's a pun in two languages].

This photo, credited to Athletic Model Guild, appears on the back cover of the October/November 1961 issue of Muscles magazine.

While there are lots of familiar faces and bodies, this Brussels-based magazine has it's own stable of physique photographers including Europhoto, Ferrero, Photos Stan, and Photo Swede.

We have a handful of Muscles available at Homobilia.com, along with the great French magazines La Culture Physique and Sciences Culturistes.

Two Affection Men Swimming

2009-06-28T11:27:00.000-07:00

Great photo from the 1930s on eBay. A little over 2 inches square but packed with acres of affection, or is that lust? And I don't see any bathing suit.

Gay Pride 1970s Style

2009-06-27T10:24:00.001-07:00

Gay Pride 1977. Original black and white real photo postcard by photojournalist Marie Ueda. For those of you who weren't around back in the 70s, the pretty woman is Anita Bryant, singer, beauty queen and homophobe best known for her 1977 "Save Our Children" campaign to repeal Miami's anti-gay discrimination ordinance. (She suceeded).

On a lighter note, we have some vintage color photos from the Polk Street Fair, about the same time. See more at homobilia.com.

Von Gloeden photo on eBay

2009-06-20T09:39:00.000-07:00

Luca, one of our collector friends in Italy has just posted a wonderful Von Gloeden photograph on eBay, Male Nudes Next to a Column (1900-1930).

If you're interested in Von Gloeden definitely take a look.

Although the listing itself is in Italian, be assured that Luca is a reputable seller. It comes from a private collection that he bought from a French library, with the catalog attached.

The auction ends June 24th.

50s Beefcake Like You've Never Seen It

2009-06-19T23:22:00.000-07:00

Sexy. Funny. Clever. Did I say sexy? The 1950s never looked or sounded so good.

I've watched this video three times in a row. Can't get enough.

Make that four times.

The Japanese Penis Festival: It's Not About Dick

2009-06-12T12:04:00.000-07:00

OK let me start by saying that I have never seen so many enormous dicks and felt absolutely nothing. So no, in spite of what looks a lot like cock worship, this doesn't qualify as homobilia. Far from it.

But it's truly fascinating from an American perspective. What would the "religious right" make of Hounen Matsuri, The Japanese Penis Festival which has been celebrated in Japan for about 1500 years?

The Japan Travel Guide sheds some light: "It is important to understand that the worship is not of the phalli, but instead a worship of the earth, of the power that nature has through renewal and regeneration. It is this context that provides the phallus with its significance."

"With everything from penis shaped candy to suck on, phallus keychains, ... dumplings in the shape of the male member, and small[?] wooden objects to take home as souvenirs, it is easy to think that it is the phallus that is being worshiped. This is not the case."

So the next time you see a guy on his knees sucking a penis, consider that he might in fact be worshiping the power of nature. But if he's sucking dick, well, all bets are off.

P.S. It's not too soon to plan your trip: the festival is held in Komaki, just north of Nagoya, every March 15th.

Gay Freedom 1970: The First Gay Pride Day

2009-06-12T09:39:00.000-07:00

According to Elizabeth A. Armstrong in her book, Forging Gay Identities (I don't think she means "faking"), the idea of an annual Freedom Day parade was first proposed by activist Craig Rodwell (founder of the Oscar Wilde Memorial Bookstore, the first devoted to gay and lesbian authors).

The resolution passed at the Eastern Regional Conference of Homophile Organizations in 1969 states:

We propose that a demonstration be held annually on the last Saturday in June in New York City to commemorate the 1969 spontaneous demonstrations on Christopher Street and this demonstration be called Christopher Street Liberation Day. No dress or age regulations shall be made....

By the time of the event, references to "demonstration" were replaced by affirmations of "celebration" and "pride."

These photos are from the Commemorative Essay, The First Anniversary Of The Gay Liberation Movement, by the Editors of QQ Magazine. It's an extraordinary piece of ephemera from a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for equal rights.

The purpose: "Serve as a permanent reminder of the greatest day in our history"... "ignite a feeling of gay pride" ... "come to know the true meaning of brotherhood."

You can find it at Homobilia.com.

Spartan of Hollywood, Eric Pedersen 50s Muscle God

2009-05-30T09:18:00.000-07:00

The perfect combination of photographer (dare I say artist?) and model. Spartan of Hollywood presents Eric Pedersen in all his chiseled glory in this amazing set of 12 vintage photos from the early 1950s.

For once the classical allusions don't seem silly. Somehow they serve to enhance the overall impact. And these photos with their superb lighting effects, have nothing if not impact.

Act fast: you can bid for them on eBay now with Paper-werks. Auction ends Jun-02-09 18:17:52 PDT

Two Male Nudes: Carl Van Vechten

2009-05-25T09:13:00.000-07:00

Carl Van Vechten (1880-1964) may be best known for writing about the music, drama and literature of the Harlem Renaissance. He was a friend to many of its most important artists and an influential patron of the arts. He was the first American critic of modern dance.

But it is in his work as a photographer that I'm most interested. According to the Library of Congress timeline:

1932: Van Vechten buys a Leica and begins photographing both fledgling and established artists and performers.

1933: Van Vechten's photographs are displayed at Bergdorf Goodman, along with the work of Cecil Beaton, Edward Steichen, Man Ray, and George Platt Lynes.

Pretty fast worker.

There are 1,395 Van Vechten photos in the Library of Congress collection, consisting mostly of celebrity portraits (including many figures from the Harlem Renaissance). A much smaller portion of the collection is an assortment of American landscapes. Apparently there are no male nudes.

These two male nudes by Van Vechten are undated. Printed as real photo postcards, the AGFA stamp confirms they're most likely from the late 30s or early 40s (before the posing strap era).

They were intended, not for public display, but for the enjoyment of the photographers like-minded friends. These two photos were from the collection of James Purdy. The model is unidentified. The mood is intimate, domestic, personal. Subtly erotic. Here's another photo of the same model from Yale University's Beinecke Library.

His Library of Congress bio makes no mention of the fact that
Van Vechten was either homosexual or bisexual but does point out that he was married. Typical.

Oh, and by the way, Wikipedia doesn't seem to know that James Purdy was gay either, or that homosexuality was the major theme of his work.

Two Great Vintage Photos of Real Gay Interest

2009-04-30T18:16:00.000-07:00

OK, there's absolutely no doubt. These guys are flirting with each other and they're about to kiss.

It's all very innocent as they stand in the sunshine, in the middle of a dirt road, hands behind their backs, cardigans buttoned, ties knotted. But you can feel the sexual tension.

We're certainly not looking at father and son, or a couple of affectionate brothers. These two are kissing cousins at least. Finally somebody selling photos on eBay that really merit the tag "gay interest."

The next snapshot shows 4 men making a groin-powered choo-choo train all their own. The "A" on the sweater stands for Ashville NC in case you're curious. While equally suggestive, it isn't as overtly gay. Who knows, maybe they're just a bunch of guys have fun sitting on top of each other.

To my surprise the second photo sold for $272 and the two men about to kiss sold for $48.00. I would have predicted just the opposite result. Shows you what I know....

Affectionate Men Tintype

2009-04-19T14:29:00.001-07:00

This category of photos seems to be immune to the effects of the recession. This tintype of two men recently sold on eBay for a whopping $280.

Why so much?

There are different levels of intimacy revealed in these photos, which seems directly connected with the prices they fetch. And this one suggests a very close relationship. I'd guess, father and son.

It is, in any case, charming. The young man sits on "Dad's" lap, casually draping an arm around his shoulder. It's hard to imagine any boy over the age of 7 who would be comfortable sitting on Dad's knee like this, or any Dad willing to be this close to his son. It's just too risky now. Too bad.

On the other hand, the guys in this photo are much closer in age, which makes their display of affection more "suspect." I learned many years ago from art historian Leo Steinberg about the "slung leg motif." It was a common visual code for sexual liaison going back to the 16th c.

Now I'm not suggesting these two guys were queer, or that they were art historians. But I see in this portrait a sexual energy which makes it far more interesting as homobilia.

Portrait of a Narcotics Dealer

2009-04-12T09:57:00.000-07:00

This wonderful photo was sold recently on eBay (for $3.99 plus shipping). I could kick myself that I didn't get it! Written on the back: "Paul Le Baron, Narcotic Seller," with a date stamp of Aug 24, 1927.

Googling Paul Le Baron didn't lead me back to 1927 but there does appear to be a cop with that name on the narcotics beat in Long Beach.

So all we know is what was written on the photo and what we see in the image: a sweet, gentle, wistful, gender-bending man sitting at a table in a bar or cafe. Did he ever see the famous portrait of Marcel Duchamp as Rose Sélavy, (c. 1920–1921)?

Of course Paul was not as stylish as Rose (though he's certainly got style) and there's no trace of make up. Unlike Duchamp who faces the camera in a direct, almost challenging expression, Paul looks off to his right which reflects shyness or wariness, or both.

Young Athlete

2009-04-05T13:35:00.000-07:00

Handsome young athlete in a formal studio pose, wearing his letter sweater. Let me guess, Vermont? There's something compelling about the simplicity and sense of calm. And something timeless about the guy.

Although undated, it is likely from the 1920s. Check it out at homobilia.com

Bodybuilders: Vintage photos

2009-04-05T10:10:00.000-07:00

Some terrific and rare images of classic bodybuilders in classic poses (though not exactly 200 years as the video claims (photography wasn't even invented until the 1820s). Interesting comments too... all about steroids and bench-pressing as if there is no homosexual sub-text to all of this male beauty.

MILK memorabilia

2009-03-29T10:20:00.000-07:00

Levi Strauss & Co. denim jacket and jeans worn by Sean Penn, along with an official MILK poster, two 8x10 photos (by Biron) of Penn wearing the outfit, original prop business cards, original prop buttons, and the original prop postcard handed to Penn before his speech to the crowd: Sold on eBay on March 27 for $1,158.00. (Actor sold separately.)

Unfortunately, all items were dry cleaned before the auction (or the winning bid would certainly have been higher). In any case, the proceeds went to support the National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association.

One small step for NLGJA. One giant leap for homobilia.

Stowitts as The Satyr

2009-03-15T10:51:00.000-07:00

Rare photo of Hubert Stowitts as the nearly nude satyr in Rex Ingram's silent film, The Magician (Metro, 1926). Stowitts was an athlete, dancer and artist whose extraordinary story is told by his biographer, Anne Holliday for Queer Arts Resource.

Anna Pavlova discovered Stowitts dancing at the Greek Theater in Berkeley in the summer of 1915 and invited him to join her ballet company. He became a star in his own right, appearing in London, Stockholm, Madrid and New York. In Paris Stowitts starred in the 1924 Folies-Bergère with dazzling costumes by Erté.

Few dancers have the courage to retire in their prime, especially when "trained down to racehorse shape," as Stowitts described himself. Even fewer have the courage at age 33 to launch themselves in an entirely new career as a painter (his studio was on Montmartre's Avenue de Clichy).

In 1926 Stowitts made his first film, "The Magician", for Metro Studios. With earnings from this venture he was able to underwrite an odyssey to the East where he lived and painted in Indonesia and India.

For more about Stowitts (and there's LOTS more to tell) check out The Stowitts Museum and Library

6 Men in a Bed

2009-03-08T16:48:00.001-07:00

You gotta love this photo. OK, the six men are technically in four beds, but they've been pushed together to form a single unit. And the guys are crammed together too (except for the judgemental one with the glasses: he doesn't share).

The photo (sold recently on eBay) is from Finland which may explain why the guys look so very white. It's a great shot but what is really weird is the apparition in front of the window on the right. What the hell is that?

Army Card Game Double Exposure

2009-02-28T19:52:00.001-08:00

This is one of the most amazing images I've seen since I started collecting homobilia. A 3 1/2" square color print dated "May 1966, Ft. McClellan Ala."

A group of guys sitting around the barracks playing cards. The composition recalls the Renaissance masters, with a mysterious floating bag of Fiesta chips at the center. Above all the action, a poster (of Fearless Leader?) "Knows, Feels, Wills, Believes." Whoa.

The subject matter is a gay fantasy.

Given the sequence of images we know that immediately after the card game these men removed their uniforms and posed for the next photo. One can only assume they were playing strip poker.

But it gets even better. A close examination of the second exposure (and you better believe I gave this photo a very close examination) reveals 9 happy GI's. Open flys in the shorts of the two most prominent men who stand at ease, smiles on their faces.

My only regret is this isn't a triple exposure.

P.S. To meet the needs of the Vietnam War, an Advanced Individual Training Infantry Brigade was activated in 1966. It was deactivated in April 1970, after training more than 30,000 men. Those were the days!

Man Debriefing

2009-02-28T19:18:00.000-08:00

This anonymous physique photo blurs the line between professional and amateur. The lighting suggests that it was shot by a pro, but it could have been taken in somebody's living room, with drapes in the background and the striped towel laid on the floor.

The model is absorbed in thought. Is he pulling his shorts on, or off? Is that sweat, or has his lithe body been lightly oiled?

A very sexy image, what with the hint of chest hair and pubic hair, those big muscular legs and the outline of his basket. Works for me.

Ready, Aim, Play Dead

2009-01-31T09:30:00.001-08:00

How this soldier managed to get his uniform off without removing his belt and boots is a mystery. Guess it is one of those things they teach you in boot camp.

Here you can plainly see his big holster. Big holster, big gun.

And here we have the enemy clad only in a black leather jacket and bicycle chains. This is what they teach you in Camp camp.

This unusual set of vintage male nudes is from the early 60s. See more at homobilia.com

Russian Strongman

2009-01-23T21:16:00.000-08:00

Very cool photo circa 1909-13, from an album of 63 real photo postcards.

It isn't all that unusual. A male nude, seen from the side/rear. This was a time and place before posing straps were thought necessary.

However, this guy is either on his way to rob a bank or very concerned about protecting his anonymity. Or maybe he's just into some kinky scenes. Love the striped socks too.

Any way you look at it, it's hot.

By the way, the album sold at auction recently for $3,200 plus a 22.5% buyers premium. Good homobilia doesn't come cheap!

Rub-a-Dub

2009-01-18T10:42:00.001-08:00

What we have here is the intersection of physique photography, peep show, innocent male bonding and a Navy instructional manual.

It clearly seems authentic... this is no photo studio, the sailors seem real too. But what the hell are they doing and why are they smiling so broadly?

Numaderm provides some answers: "If you have trouble with dry itchy skin, call in the salt brigade. When you finish your bath or shower, spend a few minutes rubbing salt into your skin. The rubbing actually helps improve circulation which is always good but the friction from the salt particles will remove dead skin..."

Apparently it's a lot more fun to have a buddy in your "salt brigade" who can do the rubbing for you. Only one problem with this theory... there's no sign of water anywhere. I guess this is a dry rub.

For those of you wanting to try it at home, Origins sells their "Let's Circulate" salt rub soap for only $13.50 (sailor buddy not included).

The Posing Strap: Vintage Muscle Men Video

2009-01-10T09:05:00.000-08:00

Really enjoyed this video tribute to the posing strap. Great vintage photos and the Pet Shop Boys "Go West" soundtrack. Did you know that Bob Mizer's mother made the posing straps for his models? Five minutes of posing strap trivia and fun for the whole family.

This one's pretty cool too, "Sequence #31 in The Masculine Physique Series," looks like 1952. No soundtrack but it's more than a collection of still photos. Two very sexy guys strolling and posing in the dunes.

Vintage photo of a man with a bubble butt. Why?

2009-01-03T17:18:00.000-08:00

When I look at this photo of "Ratzy" I imagine nudging his legs apart, kneeling between them and lowering my body on top of his. I want to feel that perfect butt pressed against my groin, the warmth of his skin against mine.

My question is: Why was this picture taken?

It dates from the 1940s, and came from a family photo album that includes guys in the military, lots of horsing around, and the common snapshots of Mother and babies and Cookie the dog. So why then, a photo like this which seems so obviously homoerotic?

Was it meant to be funny? Was the photographer simply oblivious to the male beauty on display? We'll never know.

Whatever the intent, it has found a new, appreciate audience.

Jean Boullet

2009-01-01T12:48:00.000-08:00

An illustration from Les Beaux Gars, published in Nice 1951.

Born in 1921, Boullet was part of a circle of openly gay artists. His drawing style is reminiscent of Jean Cocteau-- with a hint of Tom of Finland.

Although he has a wide reputation in France (the Pompidou Center describes him as a "goblin in chains and black leather") there's hardly anything written about him in English.

What do you know about this under-appreciated artist? Please post any info in comments.

To Harvey

2008-12-27T09:31:00.000-08:00

Finally saw MILK last night in a movie theater in the City Across the Bay-- Oakland, CA. While feeling some regret that I didn't see it at the Castro, I realized that it's just another sign of progress: We Are Everywhere. By the end of the film I heard lots of sniffling and saw plenty of teary eyes.

Still smarting from the passage of Prop 8, Milk's story, told and acted so beautifully, gives us strength and inspiration. Yes, it gives us "hope." Harvey may not have been resurrected but there's no doubt his spirit lives on.

And so we offer this vintage black and white photo by Crawford Barton as a tribute to Harvey Milk and his comrades.

It shows a smiling Larry Lara (Barton's lover) standing nude with the city of San Francisco as a backdrop.

It is both a personal and a political statement. And there's no doubt that Harvey, who had a keen sense of drama and an eye for male beauty, would have appreciated it.

Men Showering Together

2008-12-25T13:10:00.000-08:00

A great photo, sold yesterday on eBay for a hefty $620. Pretty good price for an anonymous 8" x 10" photo with damage from a paper clip near the top.

The appeal is obvious... a bunch of naked guys showering together.

They all turn their backsides to the camera. Nice butts. Skin glistening. Soap dropping... well one can imagine.

But there's something very strange going on when you look a little more closely. Is it a double exposure? An elaborate Photoshop trick?

The guys in the foreground don't seem to be part of the same image. They look like they've been superimposed or layered on top.

The man on the right who is either taking off or putting on his underwear has a semi-transparent shoulder. The guys on the left... what the hell are they doing, just watching? Doesn't that seem a little, uh, gay?

And what's going on in the room itself? It doesn't look like a barracks, or a gym, or a bath house. Shower heads dangle from the lofty ceiling where a couple loose boards might come crashing down at any second. The whole steamy scene is artfully illuminated. You can almost hear the water dripping.

This photo raises a lot of questions and provides few, if any answers. Maybe that's why it was such a hot item. Or maybe just any old photo of a bunch of naked guys showering together sells for 600 bucks these days. I dunno, but will keep my eyes open.

Gay Interest

2008-12-07T16:06:00.000-08:00

If you've spent anytime looking for homobilia on eBay the most common label you'll see is "gay interest." It's applied to just about any photo of a man. Two men in the same photo: "gay interest" no matter how disconnected they are.

If one man lays a hand on another's arm or shoulder, well you can be pretty sure that gay collectors will go ape-shit for it.

Or so eBay sellers hope. If there is such a thing as gaydar it can be directed at photos as well as people. Very few photos of men together are actually of "gay interest."

So what does this photo reveal? Two well dressed, cigar smoking men pose for a formal portrait. There is but one chair. The man on the left (call him Peter) sits on the others' knee. The other man (call him Albert) puts his right arm around Peter and holds him closely.

Gay interest? Absolutely. These guys are comfortable with each other. There's a matter-of-fact quality about their physicality, an intimacy you rarely see between two straight men. But that doesn't make them gay.

We can actually identify these men. Peter Aardahl on the left, Albert Aardahl on the right. Brothers. Farmers in North Dakota. Their photo was taken between 1912 and 1920. Before straight men learned to worry about being mistaken for gays. Now that's gay-interest.

Vern Front and Back

2008-11-28T20:58:00.001-08:00

Meet Vern. He posed for these two photos sometime between 1920 and 1924. Remove the tapestry backdrop and the front view shows a guy you might have seen the other day at Gold's Gym. He's got a big toothy grin and a little spark in his eye.

Vern stands before the camera with ease and confidence. Wearing what appears to be white boxers with a little drawstring, he's obviously proud of his body. These pictures were taken to document his accomplishments in physical culture.

By today's overblown, self-conscious, airbrushed standards he seems pretty "normal." Maybe that's what's so appealing about him.

These two real photo postcards were saved for over 80 years before one of Vern's descendants decided it was time to auction them off.

Don't know how he would have felt about that but we'll try to make sure he finds a good home.

Targeting the Urban Gay

2008-11-26T21:34:00.000-08:00

Target.com has an interesting user interface that lets you choose "Gifts for Him" and then shop by "Personality."

Is he a "Guy's Guy," an "Outdoor Explorer," a "Devoted Dad," or is he perhaps an "Urban Guy?"

So what gifts does the Urban Guy want from Target this holiday season?

Let's see. There's the Bose headphones (the cheap ones are crap says my boyfriend), a 15 pc. cutlery set, an MP3 player (does anybody remember MP2?), a super tasteful comforter set (charcoal), a black and white poster of "Manhattan at Night," a black side table, and another comforter set ("bleeding stripe").

Apparently Urban Guys spend a whole lot of time listening to music while they play with knives in bed under the New York skyline. Did I mention they are really into bedding?

The only thing that's missing from this assortment is the Titanmen Vibe MasterTool #4. It gives new meaning to "Black Friday" but unfortunately it isn't available at Target.

Maybe next year they'll add it, along with "Top," "Bottom" and "Versatile" in their list of personality types.

If you're feeling a little off-kilter or a bit off-key today

2008-11-12T16:17:00.000-08:00

Take heart. Here's Joan Crawford in 1929 as "the personification of youth, beauty, joy and happiness." Before she had shoulder pads, before she found her "face," before she became a corporate mogul, before she became a gay icon.

Joan had more than a bit of trouble singing on key. She danced with enthusiasm, not grace. But that didn't prevent her rise to Hollywood royalty. How can you not love her?

Want more Joan?

Sculpture Studio

2008-11-10T18:38:00.000-08:00

This undated (1930s?) press photo has the timeless appeal of two nude men. Very hot nude men. Soapy nude men. But that's not what makes it so interesting (well, not entirely).

What publication was going to publish this strange picture and what's really going on?

There are in fact three models. A woman, light reflecting off one bare breast, stands between and behind the men. She's waiting her turn to wash off whatever it is they have apparently all be painted with. Her gaze is down and away. She's reduced to part of the background.

On the left we have one dark haired model who can't quite seem to stop rubbing his muscular belly with a soapy rag. He watches as his fellow model lifts one shapely leg to the rim of the washtub.

He too looks down and away from the camera. Maybe a hint of a smile? Does he realize how beautiful he is?

Also in this little tableau we see, standing towards the back of the studio, three more men. One peaks out from behind the curtain on the left, another stands obscured the model, and then there's the sculptor in his crisp white smock, hand on hip.

He watches too, with an expression that seems wistful. So much beauty, so close by-- he could just extend a hand to help with those hard-to-reach places. He fantasizes because he knows (as we do) that it can never happen. OK, OK, OK. But there's a odd quality of stillness, sadness. Everyone seems not so much posed as frozen in time.

Together the two models bring to mind the Kouroi of the ancient world, and thanks to Wikipedia we found the double kouros of Kleobis and Biton, sons of Cydippe, a priestess of Hera. Now that's a sad story.

Turns out Cydippe was running late for a feast in honor of Hera, and her two strong sons pulled her oxcart the entire way. Cydippe was so impressed with their devotion she prayed to Hera to give them the best gift a god could give a mortal.

Hera ordained that the brothers would die in their sleep. After the feast they lay down in the temple, fell asleep, and never woke.

Thank you Hera.

This photo is available at Homobilia.com.

Another look at gay marriage

2008-11-10T18:08:00.000-08:00

Received this photo in the mail today. Our friends Barbara and Fran, posing in front of San Francisco City Hall. They came back to California, all the way from Lancaster PA, to get married.

By the time the photo arrived, Proposition 8 had threatened their marriage, and those of the 18,000 other gay and lesbian newlyweds.

There's something striking about this photo. You'd never know it is a wedding portrait. It is, in fact, a threat to traditional wedding photography!

Here are two women who love each other very much, lived together for years, own a home, run a business, etc. Their wedding portrait couldn't be more mundane, or more subversive.

It isn't fantasy with big hair and too much makeup and expensive clothes no one will ever wear again. It's reality. Their reality. It avoids ALL the stereotypes of wedding photography. With no "role" to play, each is free to be themselves.

It suggests a boldness of thought, an independence of spirit, a "can-do" attitude. It's so fucking "American."

Some day it will be homobilia.

P.S. Really great piece in the NYTimes.

Gay Wedding Portrait

2008-11-05T16:01:00.000-08:00

5 November 2008. Obama elected. Same-sex marriage ban wins in CA.

Like many of you I'm fucking pissed off. It just doesn't feel like the dawn of a new era.

To the 18,000 gay and lesbian couples who have wed since June we offer this little bit of perspective.

"Tony, John and Matthew, 1917" it says on the back of the photo.

Looks to me like the best man holding flowers and the newlyweds holding hands. Yes, it looks like, dare I even write the words... Gay Marriage! Brave for 1917.

Sadly, 91 years later, it's still a pretty brave act.

Elmer Lodge

2008-11-02T21:42:00.000-08:00

A 20 year-old blue eyed vagrant.

5-9", 155 lbs., light brown hair.

Busted in Topeka, Kansas on June 25th, 1926.

Arresting officer Brandon (Special). Whatever that means.

In spite of those movie star looks, Elmer had obviously fallen on hard times. I fear that he led a really tough life. But man, if I had to share a cell with somebody in Topeka...

Drum Magazine

2008-11-02T15:16:00.000-08:00

Unlike the earlier physique magazines, Drum was published "by male homosexuals for the entertainment and information of other male homosexuals." It offers a boy-next-door aesthetic, (no frontal nudity) news from all over the U.S., articles, book reviews, "Ask Drum," classifieds, and more. It is actually interesting to read!

Baltimore: Commissioner of Correction Vernon L. Peppersack has said that 'some homosexual prisoners are allowed to share cells as man and wife in the Maryland Penitentiary if they don't cause trouble. Washington Post, Sept 18.'

New York City: 'We were going to call it Columbia University Mattachine, but the initials killed it,' quipped a student. The good humor did not cloud the objective however: a group of Columbia students, with the cooperation of their Chaplain's office, are forming America's first homophile organization on a university campus.'

The "National Homosexuality Test" offers 18 questions including:

Q: Is homosexuality against criminal law?
A: No. Such laws would be clearly unconstitutional. In each state, except Illinois, certain acts are against the law however. It seems that it is o.k. to be gay as long as you don't do anything about it.

Much has changed in the past 40 years, but these magazines are still informative and entertaining. And sometimes when we think of all the obstacles in the road ahead it is good to look back and see where we've come from.

See more issues of Drum at Homobilia.com

Sherbet and Sodomy

2008-10-30T17:57:00.000-07:00

The gay novels I collect are mostly all about the covers. The more lurid the better. I've even tried to read a few, but never succeed in getting beyond a page or two. From a literary perspective their merits are lacking. As porn, they tend to leave me, uh, flat.

So it was a surprise to come across Sherbet and Sodomy written by I.V. Ebbing and published in 1971. Smart, sexy, funny, and of course, a period piece from the early days of gay liberation.

Read the first page... see if you aren't intrigued.

My name is Jud. I am eighteen and a half. I was born from the felicitous conjunction of an anthropologist and an ethnologist under the sign of Capricorn. I have been called cute, handsome, pretty, and good-looking; actually, I am beautiful... my nose is classically English, along the line of Reynolds, maybe with a little Caravaggio thrown in around the nostrils. My athletic adolescence on the swimming team at Sterling High has given me a slender muscular body... my eyes are South Pacific blue. I have read Hesiod. I masturbate regularly. I have no concept of money or its value. I try to keep my farts silent. I have juvenile down on my ass. I have read the minor Elizabethan poets and I have looked at my anal sphincter in the mirror. Until last week I considered myself heterosexual...

Find Sherbet and Sodomy at Homobilia.com

Two More: Vintage Muscle Men

2008-10-30T17:47:00.000-07:00

These pretty much speak for themselves. Or is it that they leave me speechless?

From the album of real photo postcards collected by Albert Edward Pritchard, they were taken by P. W. Luton and date from the 1920s.

More from Albert's photo album

2008-10-29T22:29:00.000-07:00

Back in Carlton Studios. Luton has found a better angle to photograph our friend Albert Edward Pritchard. From the side and slightly behind. This time he's printed the card in a deep rich sepia-tone.

Albert's (he doesn't seem like an "Al." Maybe he went by his middle name-- Edward-- he seems more like an Eddie) Albert's blond hair is combed back, his face in profile against the drapery. Chest out, stomach in, butt cheeks concealed.

Is it my imagination or does he seem to be more at ease? A little more self-confident.

Still, there's that same slightly quizzical expression as he turns to look back at the photographer, that same gentleness about him. Bodybuilder, model, and a collector of physique photos. You add it up.

Sadly there are no other photos of him in the album. And it is unlikely we'll ever find another.

So turning the page to gaze at the next photo, the new mystery.

A series of three pretty racy pictures of an extremely well-defined young strongman.

Not quite so shy as Eddie, this anonymous athlete stands naked (not nude) in front of Luton's camera. The position of his hands conveniently eliminates any need for fig leaf or posing strap.

But stay tuned, there are more revealing photos to come....

Muscle Daddy

2008-10-28T17:42:00.000-07:00

From an album of real photo postcards collected by one Albert Edward Pritchard come an assortment of 43 strongmen, both famous and anonymous. We know little about Mr. Pritchard. His address in New Cross, Southeast of Central London, is little over half a mile from Carlton Studios, where most of the photos were taken by P. W. Luton.

One card is identified as A. Pritchard.

For a muscleman it is a strange, almost non-pose. Palms up, fingers cupped slightly. Perhaps he's flexing his biceps but it seems more like he's approaching-- slowly, timidly, as a supplicant. Which brings us to that face. Sweet. Almost pretty. His slightly furrowed brow seems to ask: "Is this OK?" On his lips the barest hint of a Mona Lisa smile.

If this photo was taken around 1920 and he was maybe 20 years old, Mr. Pritchard is now, according to my calculations, 108 years of age. How strange to see him frozen in time, in his youth, in his prime. To hold these photos as he once held them. To gaze at the images of male beauty that he assembled in his album more than 80 years ago. Makes me wonder.

More photos to come...

Fathers and Sons

2008-10-21T17:35:00.001-07:00

Found these two photos over the weekend and now I have a new category for my collecting: Fathers and Sons. Strange that I didn't start collecting these long ago... maybe not enough years of therapy under my belt.

Anyway, these two pictures seem to suggest two very different kinds of father/son relationships. There's the classic "he-man" Dad teaching son to make a muscle. Little Billy is literally imitating his papa, learning how to be "manly." Now there's no need to go into the obvious homoerotic overtones.

The other kind of relationship (the one I had) is captured in this photo. These two people may be occupying the same planet but they sure aren't relating to each other.

And call me crazy, but there's something about the pose of the little boy to suggest he would grow up to be... well, somebody like me. Love the pleated trousers too.

Cross Dressing the Line: Meet Princess Wolffe

2008-10-20T10:52:00.000-07:00

The ceremony of Crossing the Line is an initiation rite commemorating a sailor's first crossing of the equator. The tradition was created as a test for seasoned sailors to ensure their new shipmates were capable of handling long rough voyages.

Sailors who have already crossed the equator are nicknamed (Trusty) Shellbacks, often referred to as Sons of Neptune; those who have not are nicknamed (Slimy) Pollywogs.

This great photo is one of "Neptune's daughters," a cigar-chomping sailor named Wolffe. It's hard to look at this picture and not smile.

Two Unusual Photos from Homobilia

2008-10-11T11:30:00.000-07:00

We came across this amazing photo of a four young men entering a burning swimming pool. One man has just jumped in, naked, while three others watch/wait. Personally, I would be at the back of the line.

Why is the pool on fire? Why is the guy jumping in? Why is he naked? Why are the two guys in the background sitting casually by the pool while all this is going on? The pool is on fire!

There are just a few of the things we wonder about when we look at this photo. It is undated, unsigned and 8" x 10". You can find it on the homobilia.com site.

This is another anonymous vintage photo of a male nude who has been blindfolded. And then some. Not sure what to call that: it isn't a mask, it isn't a hood...

Is this image more disturbing than it is sexy? Or the other way around? The one thing we can be sure of is the model has been working up a sweat.

It measures 2 1/2" x 3 1/2" and we're told it was "from LA," probably early 60s.

Tom Bianchi: Memories of Fire Island

2008-06-13T19:58:00.000-07:00

Since Tom Bianchi's first gallery showing of male nudes in 1978, he's become one of the most successful photographers in the world. His body of work consists of sculptures, 12 photography books, calendars and three documentary films: The Pool, On the Couch Vol. 1 and On the Couch Vol. 2.

Tom recently rediscovered nearly 6000 Polaroid photos he shot while a lawyer at Columbia Pictures. His Memories of Fire Island snapshots taken between 1975 - 1980 is proving to be one of his most popular bodies of work, with a future book and film in the making.

These polaroid snapshots of the early 70's in Fire Island are as fresh and true today as they were when they were shot nearly 40 years ago. Exposure Gallery in Palm Springs is offering large scale giclee prints of these great images.

Alan B. Stone and the Senses of Place

2008-06-06T12:24:00.000-07:00

This historical exhibition at SF Camerawork (through August 23, 2008) examines the social and cultural conditions affecting the life and work of Alan B. Stone, a gay photographer who worked prolifically in Montreal, Canada from the 1950s to the 1970s.

Writer, historian and curator David Deitcher, (Affectionate Men) who also grew up in Montreal, presents Stone's work as a means of exploring some of the ways in which Deitcher himself subjectively experiences, uses, and is affected by photographs.

Stone (1928-1992) considered himself a commercial photographer, not an artist. His photographs of postwar Montreal reflect the period of economic and social repression. His early photos scouting photos are subtly erotic, reflecting an oblique sexual point of view that carries through much of his work.

Beginning in 1953 under the name Mark One Studio, Stone was marketing male physique photos. "With their dubious claims to athleticism and/or art, such magazines offered a dime-thin veneer of deniability to closeted customers."

Deitcher goes on to observe that: "The photographs made under the Mark One name also document Stone's personal connection (or lack thereof) to a sense of gay community." Living at home with his Mother until her death, he photographed short models in the basement, tall models outdoors.

The Camerwork site has only a couple images so if you're in San Francisco this summer, this exhibition is highly recommended.

Crawford Barton: Photographs of San Francisco in the 70s.

2006-04-27T23:28:00.000-07:00

Documenting the Golden Age
Born and raised in a fundamentalist community in rural Georgia, Crawford Barton moved to California in the 1960s to pursue his art and life as an openly gay man. By the early 70s he was established as a leading photographer of the “golden age of gay awakening” in San Francisco. He was as much a participant as a chronicler of this extraordinary time and place.

Family and Friends
Barton’s images document some of the first Gay Pride parades and protests, as well as his circle of friends and acquaintances, including his lover of 22 years, Larry Lara. Crawford described Larry as the “perfect specimen, as crazy and wonderful and spontaneous and free as Kerouac, so I’m never bored and never tired of looking at him.”

Reviews from the Critics
In 1974, the De Young Museum featured Barton's prints in a show entitled "New Photography, San Francisco and the Bay Area." His bold, unapologetic work was praised by The New York Times reviewer. Other critics labeled it “shocking” and “vulgar.”

Books and Publications
In addition to his fine art photography, Barton worked on assignment for The Advocate, and the Bay Area Reporter as well as The Examiner, Newsday, and the Los Angeles Times. A book of Barton's work, Beautiful Men, was published in 1976. Crawford Barton, Days of Hope was published posthumously in 1994 by Editions Aubrey Walter.

Crawford Barton’s Legacy
“I tried to serve as a chronicler… to feed back an image of a positive, likable lifestyle to offer pleasure as well as pride,” he explained. Mark Thompson, in his Forward to Days of Hope sums it up eloquently: “Crawford Barton leaves us a portrait of a seminal time, burnished with the fine polish of his sensitivity an instinct for wonder never relinquished.”

See more of Crawford Barton's vintage photography at homobilia.com

Mel Roberts' Photographs of California Men

2006-04-27T23:13:00.000-07:00

Mel Roberts told me he is surprised by the resurgence of interest in his photography. It first appeared in Young Physique magazine in 1963. From the 1950s to the early ‘80s, he used two Rolleiflex cameras to take an estimated 50,000 photographs of nearly 200 models. Most of them were friends. Many were lovers. Now at age 82, his memories of them are as sharp and vivid as the color prints he made decades ago.

They weren’t the perfectly proportioned bodybuilders, hustlers, or professional models common in the magazines of the time and typical of AMG and Bruce of LA. Before the “Nautilus” was invented, working out at the gym was an unusual activity for a young man (gay or straight). Roberts preference was for more natural “everyday” guys, rarely older than 25. Although they were paid, they really posed for the fun of it.

Roberts recalls: “I tried to make it as enjoyable as I could. We’d go off to Yosemite or Idlewild or La Jolla on 2 or 3 day trips.” But he had to know them as friends first. “I could never just come right out and ask them to model. So very often I’d invite them over for dinner. They'd meet my friends and become a part of the ‘family’ before I'd take my first picture of them. When we did ultimately go out into the field they felt so comfortable with me and so relaxed it was reflected in my work.”

This was the vision that distinguished Roberts’ work and brought him rapid success in the U.S. and Europe: Beautiful sun-tanned guys casually posed by the pool, or against the backdrop of Southern California’s stunning natural environment. If their varying states of undress come across as a photographic striptease, it was intentional. The erotic narratives they suggest reflected the reality of their making. Sexual adventure was part of the package and everyone was having a very good time.

It was a different era: Certainly not innocent― but not nearly so cynical as our own. We might look back wistfully at this period of openness and experimentation, before AIDS, before sunscreen, before the 405 became permanently choked with cars. You could hitch a ride to LA, go to a party, pass a few joints, take off your clothes, and have sex, just because you felt like it. One writer called Roberts the ‘Hugh Hefner’ of the gay world. “I always had four or five guys living with me at one time. They had no prohibitions, no guilt about having sex with guys, even though most of them had girlfriends who were also frequent visitors.”

But it wasn’t all fun and games. This was still the “posing strap era” when taking a picture of a naked man could land a photographer in prison. Roberts had to build his own color lab to develop prints because no lab would process the film. The transparencies he sent to Eastman Kodak were returned to him with holes punched through the genitals of the models.

“I knew I was taking a chance. But I thought, I live just a few blocks from the Playboy Mansion, and here’s Hefner showing nude women, so what’s wrong with me showing nude men? I never thought there was anything wrong with being gay.”

But in the 1950s, police harassment and raids were commonplace. Roberts heard about Harry Hay and the Mattachine Society, and started having meetings at his house once a month. Just a few guys at first, but as word got out, more and more men started coming by. “We tried to make sure that guys who got arrested knew their rights: To remain silent, to demand a jury trial, etc. But if your employer found out you were gay, you got fired anyway.”

It wasn’t until 1977 that the LAPD went after Mel Roberts. Under the false charge that Roberts was photographing underage models, they showed up with a warrant and raided his home and studio. They confiscated his cameras, negatives, letters and even his mailing list (which effectively put him out of business).

“We stood in the driveway in handcuffs from 10:00 in the morning to 6:00 at night as they loaded everything into a truck. I couldn’t even return the money my customers had sent me because I didn’t have their addresses.” A second raid followed, 18 months later. The LAPD refused to return his property for over a year, even though no charges were filed against him.

But this pointless harassment took its toll, and besides, times had changed. The California Dream that Roberts’ work epitomized for many gay men was just a memory. His photographs were considered “too tame” to be published. The AIDS epidemic was spreading. His friends started dying. He put down his camera for good. But his story wasn’t over.... more to come.

Check out Mel Roberts' vintage prints of California men at homobilia.com