Elegant Portrait of Mrs. Harry K. Thaw, 1910s

This image features Mrs. Harry K. Thaw, captured between 1910 and 1915 by a photographer from the Bain News Service. Mrs. Thaw was known for her connection to a notable figure in early 20th-century American history—her husband, Harry Kendall Thaw, was infamous for the highly publicized trial following the murder of architect Stanford White in 1906. This event captured national attention and highlighted the intersection of wealth, societal privilege, and crime in New York City.

The photograph itself is part of a broader narrative about American life during this era. The early 1900s was a time of significant social change, with womens roles evolving along with the suffrage movement gaining momentum. This image serves not only as a visual record of Mrs. Thaw but also as a reflection of the complexities of society at that time. The use of glass negatives was a common technique that allowed for high-quality images, preserving moments like this for future generations. This specific photograph enriches our understanding of the period and the individuals within it, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped early 20th-century America.