A side effect of the rise of photography as a popular art form has been the accumulation of a huge body of images whose photographers and subjects remain unknown. These include fascinating photographs — some almost masterpieces — that could easily have been lost if it hadn't been for their chance rediscovery in libraries, archives, homes, and institutions. This book presents a selection of these mysterious images that provides an alternative history of the medium. They portray a striking range of people, animals, and objects, captured in scenes that can be witty, touching, sinister, or surreal.