1922 Vintage Glass Negative of Shimmering Silver

This glass negative captures an image of silver from August 1922, showcasing a valuable material that has shaped industries and economies for centuries. Silver’s role in commerce, from currency to jewelry, has made it a significant commodity. In the early 20th century, its uses expanded beyond adornments and money, incorporating photography, electronics, and even medicine.

The image is part of the George Grantham Bain Collection, a pivotal archive preserving moments from the early 1900s. Bain was a prominent figure in early American photography, known for documenting everything from everyday life to significant events. The meticulous record-keeping of images like this one allows us to examine the past closely, shedding light on the materials that fueled both industry and artistry during this dynamic period in American history.