Lot 10

Photo Postcard of Christ Head Tattoo on Huey Bowen [RPPC] (Detroit, ca. 1920) 5 1/2 x 3 1/2 in. (14 x 8.9 cm.)

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Photo Postcard of Christ Head Tattoo on Huey Bowen [RPPC] (Detroit, ca. 1920) 5 1/2 x 3 1/2 in. (14 x 8.9 cm.)

Estimate: $200 - $400

Current Bid: $225

(3 Bids)

by Bray & Co. Auctions
July 26, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
Live Auction
33 Jewell Court
Portsmouth, NH, US 03801

Photo Postcard of Christ Head Tattoo on Huey Bowen [RPPC]
(Detroit, ca. 1920)
Depicting Christ's head on the scalp of tattoo artist Hugh Bowen (1894-1970), aka Sailor Hughie. Bowen got his head tattooed in Detroit by Percy Waters around 1919, when this image was first taken. He later worked as a tattooed attraction and artist in Michigan, Long Beach and other locations, but spent most of his career in San Diego, where his wife, "Painless" Nell, operated several tattoo shops. Gelatin silver print on AZO postcard stock, Detroit, ca. 1920.

  • Dimensions: 5 1/2 x 3 1/2 in. (14 x 8.9 cm.)
  • Condition: Condition reports are provided as a courtesy and are intended to offer general guidance only. They are not comprehensive and should not be relied upon as a complete statement of condition. All items are sold as is, and the absence of a condition report does not indicate that an item is free of defects, wear, or restoration. Some condition issues may not be specifically noted and may be visible in the accompanying photographs, which form part of the overall description. Bidders are encouraged to examine items in person or to consult a knowledgeable representative prior to bidding. Please contact us with any questions or to request additional information or images, and refer to the Terms of Sale for full details.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000