Petty: The Classic Pin-Up Art of George Petty

Even if you've never heard of George Petty, you're sure to recognize the airbrushed profile of the Petty Girl. She was the face (and legs) of the 1930s, the pinup World War II soldiers languished over, even part of the reason for Esquire's early success. In this handsome portfolio of Petty's work, the Petty Girl shines in all her period glory, from Esquire centerfolds to hosiery ads to calendars. Reid Stewart Austin's accompanying biographical text illuminates Petty's battles with Esquire publisher David Smart, as well as his forays into Hollywood design and even merchandising. Petty's empire was a family business; his wife Jule helped think up ideas, and son George posed as the Petty Girl's date. Petty's main model, however, was his leggy daughter Marjorie, who contributes an introductory essay to this volume.