1916 Glass Negative Portrait of Wolpert Becker

This photograph captures Wolpert Becker in April 1916, showcasing an early instance of glass negative photography, a technique that was gaining popularity in the early 20th century. The Bain News Service, known for its extensive work in documenting significant people and events of the time, produced this image, which reflects the professional portraiture style prevalent in that era. Glass negatives have been crucial in the preservation of historical images since they offer sharp detail and clarity, allowing viewers to glimpse life during a transformative period.

Wolpert Becker, the subject of the photo, represents a rich tapestry of stories from the early 1900s, a time when society was undergoing rapid change due to industrialization and the lead-up to the First World War. Photographs like this one not only document individual lives but also serve as windows into the socio-political climate of the time. They remind us of the importance of capturing history through visual means, preserving moments that might otherwise fade from collective memory.