For many, these images represent a small fragment of LGBT history that was repressed and concealed for so long. Spa Shooting by HEGOES 179 30 photographing male (pecko) by barbatulus 39 9 Troy by HEGOES 28 8 Oh my friggin LAWD by Dominic Freeman 29 6 This guy refers to himself as 'John Fitness' on FB, and he is. But it is rarely talked about and rarely researched. Age-discrepant couples are more common than most people realize.
There is little information about the individuals in the photos and it is quite extraordinary that these images still survive - as many old photos of homosexual couples are believed to have been purposely destroyed by family members.Īlthough it is unknown whether the people in these unique photos were related, gay or just friends - the tender and close relationship between the men pictured is poignantly evident. For some gay men, the choice is between an older man or no man at all. The images, taken from various websites, capture Victorian and early-twentieth century males in intimate positions - and showing a daring amount of openness with one another for the time. At a time when homosexuality was a criminal offence and harsh sentences were brought down upon gay men, these images of male affection from the 19th century are truly remarkable.Įmbracing each other, holding hands and reclining together, these incredible black-and-white photographs provide a rare glimpse into men showing physical love to other men in the 1800s and early 1900s.
