1922 Portrait of Ina Claire: Iconic American Actress

This glass negative photograph captures Ina Claire, a prominent American actress in the early 20th century, taken on August 19, 1922, by the Bain News Service. Claire became known for her work on stage and in film, highlighted by her performances in hit productions like “The Royal Family” and later in silent films. At the time, she was one of the Hollywood stars who helped to bridge the gap between stage and screen, reflecting the shifting entertainment landscape of the 1920s.

The Bain News Service was established to provide images of notable figures and events for newspapers, showcasing people like Claire who were integral to American culture at that time. This photograph is an example of the glass negative technique widely used before the advent of modern photography methods, allowing for detailed reproduction of images. Ina Claires prominence in the entertainment world during this era adds depth to this historical testament, illuminating a snapshot of a dynamic period in American performing arts.