Q : I have two framed pictures of a little girl with a bow and arrow. She is awake in one picture and sleeping in the other. Each measures 13 by 19 inches, and each is signed "M. B. Parkinson." What can you tell me about my pictures?
A: These photos are known as "Cupid Awake" and "Cupid Asleep." Over 50 million prints of the original photos were produced in the early 1900s by the Ohio Art Co. M. B. Parkinson was the original photographer and Josephine Anderson was the model. Photos signed by Parkinson are more valuable than the prints. "Cupid Awake" -- "Cupid Asleep" photos signed by Parkinson are currently listed in "Kovel's Antiques & Collectibles Price List, 1994" at $450 for the set.
Letters with picture(s) are welcome and may be answered in the column. We cannot reply personally or return pictures. Address your letters to Anne McCollam, P.O. Box 490, Notre Dame, Ind. 46556.