Bystander- Military officer collecting images of Gaby Deslys
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Bystander- Military officer collecting images of Gaby Deslys
A military officer, second in command, collecting images of the actress Gaby Deslys (1881-1920), as a way of improving the morale while fighting abroad. Date: 1916
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Media ID 14155496
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Alick Bystander Collect Collecting Collector Command Deslys Dugout Gaby Morale Nineteen Pinup Pinups Ritchie Sixteen Trench Trenches
EDITORS COMMENTS
Amidst the harsh realities of the Western Front during World War I in 1916, a second-in-command military officer, identified as Lieutenant Alick Ritchie, took a moment of respite from the rigors of military life to collect images of the captivating French-born actress, Gaby Deslys (1881-1920). As the war raged on, the morale of the soldiers was at an all-time low, and the officer believed that these pinups, featuring the alluring and vivacious Deslys, could bring a spark of joy and distraction to the weary troops. The image captures Lieutenant Ritchie carefully handling a collection of Gaby Deslys' posters, meticulously pinning them up on the wall of his dugout, a small shelter used by soldiers in the trenches. The officer's uniform, adorned with insignia of his rank and military unit, adds an authentic touch to the scene, emphasizing the historical significance of this moment. Gaby Deslys, a popular model and performer, was a sensation during the early 20th century. Her allure and charm transcended borders, making her a beloved figure among both civilians and soldiers alike. The officer's collection of her posters served as a testament to her enduring appeal and the power of art and beauty to uplift the human spirit, even in the most challenging of circumstances. This poignant photograph offers a rare glimpse into the lives of soldiers during the First World War, providing a poignant reminder of the human element that existed amidst the chaos and destruction of the battlefield.
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