Elegant Portrait of Princess Henry, 1914

This glass negative captures Princess Henry of Prussia, a notable figure during a time of significant political change in Europe. Taken on February 10, 1914, by the Bain News Service, the photograph reflects not only the elegance of the era but also the enduring influence of royal figures in shaping European dynamics. Born as Princess Irene of Hesse, she married Prince Henry in 1888, becoming part of the Prussian royal family and playing a role in the social and political lives of the time.

The early 20th century was marked by the buildup to World War I, a conflict that would drastically alter the map of Europe and the institution of monarchy itself. Princess Henrys lineage and connections exemplified the interlinked relationships among European royal families, which often served to forge alliances and peace. Despite these connections, the war would soon challenge the relevance of monarchies and shift power dramatically across the continent. The Bain News Services depiction of public figures like her allows us a glimpse into the lives and environments of the time, serving as a visual record of a world on the brink of transformation.