How to sit down without chairs

"A regiment of soldiers sitting as above, and forming a circle, can all rest comfortably on each others knees."

Comfortably, really? How about sitting down on the ground?

19th century tattoos

The Last Supper tattoo? God will be pleased.



The motto across this late 19th century tattoo enthusiast clearly says "Forget me not." Seriously, how can this be erased from ones memory?

Trained seals (not what you're used to seeing)

We are used to seals doing clever tricks at aquariums. Usually they balance objects, clap with their flippers and make funny noises. My favorite is when they are used to promote environmental causes (like recycling). The life of a trained seal used to be quite different in the 19th century. They were forced to smoke, play tambourines and fire pistols. As the original caption notes, "They are glad to do this, to escape being skinned to make ladies' jackets."

"New Woman" of the late 1890s

The "New Woman", as portrayed in the 1890s. This image won a prize established by the "Picture Magazine" for best illustration on the subject. It is most curious that the very idea of a woman not wearing corsets was entirely unthinkable! Sure, she's got her fancy trouser-pantaloons (what horror!), but the corset must be worn no matter what.

Gentleman with a muff

Portrait of William of Orange, demonstrating the use of a muff by gentlemen.

Squillary

Last thoughts

A Love Triangle

A pleasant ride

Best one ever

And God said

Business as usual

Coast Guard Musings