38

(Detroit or Los Angeles, ca. 1945)

Large Press Photograph of Tattoo Artist "Dainty Dotty"

An original photograph showing Florence H. Sprague (1909-1952), better known as "Dainty Dotty," Los Angeles, California, ca. 1945. Professionally framed with UV-protective glass. Verso with exhibition label from the Hammond Museum (2016).

Dotty was one of the few practicing women tattooers in mid-20th-century America. She was working as the "fat lady" for Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus when she met tattoo artist Owen Jensen. They married in 1945 and first worked together in Detroit before moving to Los Angeles, where they tattooed on the Pike.

Provenance: Collection of Tom Christopher; from Eric Minugh; from Leroy Minugh; from Owen Jensen

Exhibited in "Of Pirates, Mermaids and True Love: 100 Years of Tattoo Flash," Hammond Museum, 2016
Sight: 9 1/4 x 7 1/2 in. (23.5 x 19.1 cm.), Frame: 13 x 13 in. (33 x 33 cm.)

  • Condition: Excellent Condition

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November 9, 2025 12:00 PM EST
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