Name/Title
Portrait of Lewis H. LatimerDescription
This is a sepia-toned photographic portrait of Lewis Latimer, identical to another photographic print in the collection that has the inscription “To my wife from her devoted husband. L. H. Latimer – 70 years young, July 1919, N.Y." Latimer wears a dark suit, white shirt, and tie, with round-rimmed glasses. His expression is serious and dignified, and his bald head and slight wrinkles suggest advanced age. The portrait has a soft vignette effect, commonly used in early photographic prints to create a refined and professional appearance. The edges of the print are slightly worn, with visible creases and discoloration, indicating age and handling over time.Context
This style of formal photographic portraiture was widely used in African American professional and social circles during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The use of sepia tone and soft focus was a common aesthetic in cabinet card photographs or printed memorial images of respected individuals.Collection
Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]