Elegant Early 20th Century Actress Portrait (1915)

This photograph features Edith Wynne Matthison, a prominent actress of the early 20th century. Created by the Bain News Service between 1915 and 1916, it captures Matthison during a period when she was known for her roles in Broadway productions and silent films. The image was published in The Sunday Oregonian on June 4, 1916, highlighting her significance in the entertainment industry of the time.

The photograph is a product of glass plate negative technology, a method widely used before the introduction of flexible film. This technique allowed for high-quality images and was characteristic of the era’s news photography. Matthison’s image not only serves as a record of her career but also reflects the art of photography during a transformative time in American entertainment history. The elegance and poise she projects encapsulate the cultural trends of the period.