Elegant Portrait of a 1916 Social Icon

This photograph features Hortense Stollnitz, captured in 1916 by a Bain News Service photographer. Hortense was likely engaged in notable social or artistic pursuits during a vibrant period marked by significant changes in American culture, as the nation was on the brink of entering World War I. The image, created as a glass negative, reflects the photographic techniques of the time, which emphasized clear detail and sharp contrast, making it a valuable reference point for understanding early 20th-century portraiture.

Hortense’s image relates to the era’s evolving identity, showcasing the roles women were beginning to embrace beyond traditional expectations. As the country faced major shifts, including the suffrage movement gaining momentum, women like Hortense became integral parts of the social fabric, contributing to the discussions and changes that would shape the future. This photograph serves as a documentation of that dynamic moment in history.