Elegant 1910s Gathering of Social Luminaries

This photograph captures A.J.D. Biddle Jr. and his wife alongside Angier Duke and his wife, showcasing a gathering of notable figures from the early twentieth century. Taken by a Bain News Service photographer between 1915 and 1920, the image reflects the social dynamics of the time and offers a glimpse into the lives of affluent families. A.J.D. Biddle Jr. was known for his involvement in banking and finance, while Angier Duke was a prominent socialite and philanthropist.

The context of this era was marked by significant social change, including the aftermath of World War I and the approaching Roaring Twenties. This photograph not only serves as a visual representation of these individuals but also symbolizes a period of prosperity and social engagement among the upper class. Preserved in its original glass negative format, the image stands as an important historical document, illustrating the elegance and cultural practices of the early 20th-century elite.