Elegant Early 20th Century Couple Portrait

This photograph features Waller Clinton and Julia Rooney, captured between 1915 and 1920. Both subjects likely represented a significant social circle during the early 20th century, a time marked by notable societal changes including the suffrage movement and advancements in technology. Glass negatives, like the one used to create this image, were a popular medium during this era, allowing for remarkable clarity and detail, which we can appreciate today.

Waller Clinton and Julia Rooney’s attire and poses reflect the fashion of their time, showcasing the styles that brought a sense of formality and elegance to everyday life. This period also saw the rise of photography as a means to document personal and public life. Thus, this photograph not only captures individuals but also provides a glimpse into the social customs and norms of the early 1900s. The Bain News Service, which produced this image, was renowned for its role in disseminating newsworthy visual content, contributing to the historical record we study now.