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ORIGINAL VINTAGE PHOTOGRAPH — CIRCA 1955–1959
Offered is an original vintage photograph of an African American man seated indoors, photographed in what appears to be a home or private social setting.
The subject is seated on a sofa or upholstered chair in front of patterned curtains. He is wearing a short-sleeved collared shirt with what appears to be a pen or pencil in the chest pocket, a wristwatch, and is captured in a relaxed, candid pose with his hands together.
This is a particularly nice example of mid-century vernacular photography, documenting an ordinary moment of African American life rather than a commercial or studio portrait.
WHAT MAKES THIS PHOTO INTERESTING
* African American subject
* Mid-century domestic/social setting
* Original period photograph
* Candid, informal portrait
* Vintage clothing and accessories
* Wristwatch and pocket pens visible
* Patterned mid-century interior curtains and furniture
* Strong period atmosphere
* Not a modern reproduction
The photograph appears to be approximately 2½ x 3½ inches, based on the measurement notation visible with the photograph.
ESTIMATED DATE
Circa 1957
Estimated range: 1954–1960
The clothing, photographic appearance, furniture/interior styling and overall presentation are consistent with the mid-to-late 1950s.
I would list 1957 as the estimated year rather than claiming an exact date.
Dating confidence: Medium.
PHOTOGRAPHIC PROCESS
I would not call this a Polaroid based on this image alone. It has the appearance of a small vintage snapshot print with a substantial white photographic border, but the exact photographic process/manufacturer cannot be established confidently from the front.
CONDITION
Vintage condition — see photographs for complete condition.
The photograph has substantial age-related wear, including:
* Brown/sepia discoloration
* Staining
* Surface marks and scratches
* Abrasion/wear around the image and borders
* Edge wear
* Areas of emulsion/image deterioration
* General aging consistent with an approximately 1950s photograph
The deterioration is part of the original vintage condition.
Please study all photographs carefully before purchasing.
COLLECTOR INTEREST
Potential collecting categories include:
African American history • Black Americana • Vernacular photography • African American family photographs • 1950s Americana • Vintage snapshots • Mid-century photography • Social history • Original photographs
The identity of the man, photographer and location are unknown.
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SEARCH KEYWORDS
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