Johnny Eagle, Tower Hill, London 1968

This authentic 1960s colour photograph captures a dramatic performance by the famous escapologist and strongman Johnny Eagle near the Tower of London in 1968. Known as a legendary figure of London’s street performance scene, Eagle is seen shirtless and focused, watching an assistant who lies on the cobbles completely encased in a brown sack and bound with heavy metal chains. A large, fascinated crowd of tourists and locals in quintessential late-sixties fashion surrounds the duo; women are seen in brightly coloured mini-dresses and sleeveless shifts, while men wear sharp-collared shirts and sports jackets. In the background, a “Mr. Whippy” ice cream van and a “Wall’s” kiosk add a touch of classic British summer nostalgia to the scene. The atmosphere is one of tense curiosity, typical of the public spectacles that once regularly occupied this historic tourist thoroughfare. This digital download is a remarkable record of London street life and fringe entertainment, perfect to print for yourself as a piece of captivating vintage wall art.