Classic Portrait of a 1910s Era Gentleman

This photograph, produced by the Bain News Service between 1915 and 1920, captures the likeness of a man named Bernard. The image forms part of the George Grantham Bain Collection, which is known for documenting notable figures and events of its time. Although we don’t see Bernards life in full context, the period was marked by significant social and political changes in the United States, including World War I, which shaped the experiences of many individuals.

The image is a glass negative, a popular medium during the early 20th century that allowed for detailed reproduction at a time when photography was rapidly evolving. Glass negatives were favored for their clarity and durability, making them valuable for news services like Bain’s. This photograph serves not only as a personal portrait but also as a small window into a defining era in American history, one filled with transformation that would eventually set the stage for the modern age.