#42: Santa and Two Clowns Visiting a Children’s Hospital, 1950s

Looking at this photo is one of those moments that really makes you stop and thank whoever it is we have to thank for our society’s development of a little bit more sensitivity since the 1950s. I mean, the good intentions are clear—sick child? Why not bring them Santa and clowns to cheer them up?

Yet, even if we ignore the fact that clowns are widely considered to be horrifying creatures, the execution here is the stuff of nightmares. What designer created these terrifying masks, and what hospital board approved them entering the ward? At least, given the circumstances, the child seems alright.