Elegant Society Portrait of Viola Kraus, 1910s

This photograph features Mrs. Walter Lewisohn, also known as Viola Kraus, taken between 1910 and 1915. Viola was a prominent figure in early 20th-century society, known for her involvement in various charitable activities and her role as a socialite in New York City. The image captures her during a time when women were increasingly stepping into public life, advocating for social reforms, and shaping cultural landscapes.

The photograph comes from the George Grantham Bain Collection, a rich repository that documents significant events and personalities of the era. The Bain News Service, which created this image, was well-known for providing news and photographic coverage that shaped public perception during this formative period in American history. Photographs like this not only serve as portraits of individual lives but also reflect broader societal changes, showcasing women’s evolving roles in family, work, and social activism.

Understanding the context of this image gives insight into the lifestyle and aspirations of women like Viola Kraus during a transformative era. Her contributions, alongside those of many women at the time, were crucial in laying the groundwork for future generations to continue pushing for equality and representation in both public and private spheres.