In this theatrical studio composition, Evelyn West stands in sheer gloves and a pearl necklace, posed mid-conversation on a corded phone. She’s positioned next to a chaise lounge framed by a bold leopard-print backdrop. The combination of minimal accessories and dramatic styling—especially the fur-like backdrop and the suspense of her phone call pose—creates a sense of glamorous mystery and high camp allure.
About the Model:
Known as the “$50,000 Treasure Chest” (a nickname she famously insured), Evelyn West was a burlesque performer and pin-up model who leaned into showmanship and spectacle. Active throughout the 1940s and 50s, she became a well-known figure on the nightclub and vaudeville circuit, often promoting herself with a mix of humor and headline-grabbing stunts. Her modeling work, including sessions with Tom Kelley, captured the bold, curvy aesthetic that stood out in a sea of girl-next-door looks—cementing her status as a pin-up legend.
