Richmond VA Mansion Photo, 20th Century Architecture

Frances Benjamin Johnston captured this vintage photograph in Richmond, Virginia, showcasing the architectural elegance of a mansion within Henrico County. The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aimed to document significant structures and landscapes in the region. This particular work reflects the intricate design elements, including grand stairways and gabled roofs, characteristic of early 20th-century Southern architecture.

Johnston, a pioneering photographer, was known for her detailed documentation of American architecture and gardens. The photograph emphasizes the harmonious relationship between the mansion and its surrounding gardens, highlighting the aesthetic values of the period. The image serves as both a historical document and an artistic representation of the architectural styles prevalent in Richmond during that era.

Acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953, this photograph remains an important visual resource for understanding Virginias architectural history. It is preserved in the Library of Congress, contributing to the rich legacy of historical photography.