The exotic African savannah was the theme for the 2009 Pirelli Calendar. The cult “Cal” is in its 36th edition and this year, the pictures were taken by photographer Peter Beard featuring an all-star model cast including Mariacarla Boscono, Malgosia Bela, Lara Stone and Daria Werbowy.

Shot in Botswana, the amazing scenery of stunning models lying naked on the ground along side giant African elephants throwing mud all around. Hey, don’t get any dirty fantasies now! This was tastefully done and who said modelling was easy? Surely an occupational health and safety hazard, we are sure the models did not mind as they were paid around $20,000US for the photo shoot.

Peter Beard describes the calendar as “a living sculpture” and includes quotations, observations by the artist on the environment, climate change and global warming, overpopulation and the depletion of natural resources. “My real concern, is the destruction of nature on a global scale. We’ve totally lost track of what evolution is based on, and how important diversity is in nature. This concept is the very foundation of survival” The eco-friendly calendar is Zero Impact and printed on lead-free paper.

Oh if you were thinking of grabbing this calendar at your local newsagent, forget it. The exclusive Pirelli Tyres 2009 calendar is not sold commercially but given as a corporate gift to select list of people and celebrities. Enjoy the photos!

Photo gallery of 2009 Pirelli Calendar

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