Enrico Caruso and Wife: A Timeless 1918 Portrait

This historical photograph, titled Caruso & wife, was taken on August 31, 1918, by a photographer associated with Bain News Service. It features the renowned Italian tenor Enrico Caruso alongside his wife, Dorothy Benjamin Caruso. Caruso was a pivotal figure in the world of opera, known for his powerful voice and captivating stage presence. During this time, Caruso was at the height of his fame, having achieved significant success in both live performances and recorded music.

The photograph captures a moment in the life of a prominent couple during the later stages of World War I. As the war shaped global events, domestic life for many was influenced by the social and cultural changes of the era. The image not only showcases Caruso’s personal life but also serves as a record of the fashion and social norms of the early 20th century. The use of glass negatives, which was standard among photographers of that time, offers a glimpse into both the artistic techniques of the period and the preservation methods of historical documentation.

Overall, this photograph stands as an important artifact, not merely chronicling the lives of a famous couple but also reflecting the broader societal context of the time. It emphasizes the interplay between public personas and private lives during a transformative period in history.