1920s chocolate box model deemed too risque
A model used on a chocolate box in the 1920s has had to be toned down for its 21st century re-launch after being deemed too raunchy for modern consumers.
Published: 9:30AM GMT 03 Nov 2010
Bettys papier mache vintage box, left, and the new tin Photo: Glen Minikin/rossparry.co.uk
Staff at the world famous Bettys Tea Rooms unearthed the ornate model on top of a 90-year-old chocolate box buried deep in their archives.
The racy image deemed suitable for the 20s has now been chosen to appear on the boxes of their new vintage chocolates, released later this month, but not before making the mystery muse less risque.
The pretty brunette has had buttons added to her clothes, her hair smoothed down and a suggestively arched eyebrow has been lowered to make the box more appropriate to the tea room's wholesome image.
Sarah Wells, who looks after the Bettys archive, said: "We would certainly not like to be thought of as prudish, but as a family business we took the decision that an extra button or two would not go amiss.
"Our mystery model is absolutely beautiful and very seductive but she is leaving very little to the imagination.
"I am surprised at how daring the original chocolate box is for its time as there is quite a lot of flesh on display.
"I know there were flappers and jazz bands, but it is still not far from the Victorian period.
"The fact that it is still a bit risque even nowadays shows it must have caused quite a stir.
"It is dear to our hearts that Bettys remains romantic rather than racy."
Originally Posted by hampshirebrit
