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Canadian Urbanism Uncovered

Photo du Jour : Ogilvy’s Window

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Ogilvy's Christmas window display

In the crush of holiday shopping, Ogilvy’s department store traditionally dedicates a window to spreading a little non-commercial seasonal spirit. It’s a pleasure to linger on the corner of Sainte-Catherine street and de la Montagne to watch people of all ages pause, momentarily enraptured by dozens of animated stuffed animals moving in unison.

Since 1947, the window has featured two different Christmassy scenes which alternate from year to year (The “Enchanged Village” is on display this year). Strangely, close scrutiny of this scene reveals that the stuffed monkeys are not only ecologically incongruous, they appear to be rather cruel masters of the English-countryside creatures. Two overt bunny-beatings and a chain-gang of ducklings are your first clues…

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2 comments

  1. In the crush of holiday shopping, Ogilvy’s department store traditionally dedicates a window to spreading a little non-commercial seasonal spirit. It’s a pleasure to linger on the corner of Sainte-Catherine street and de la Montagne to watch people of all ages pause, momentarily enraptured by dozens of animated stuffed animals moving in unison.

  2. I wish to thank you for this photo of Ogilvy’s window display. My Mom worked there in the late 20’s and 30’s and enjoyed it very much. My brother in Ireland saw the photo and emailed it to me. Thank-you for some memories. Susan

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