Timeless Portrait of a 20th Century Icon

This image captures Frances Reeve, a notable figure of her time, in a moment preserved through the glass negative photographic process. Created in the early 20th century, this technique was a significant advancement in photography, allowing for high-quality images that were reproducible. The glass negative process involved coating a glass plate with light-sensitive emulsion, producing exceptionally detailed photographs. Frances Reeve stands as a testament to this evolving art form, reflecting not only her likeness but also the technical craftsmanship of the era.

The specific date of this photograph isnt recorded, but its clear that it belongs to a period when photography was becoming more accessible to the public. The early 1900s marked a transformative time in social and cultural history, with rapid advancements in technology and changes in lifestyle. Photographs like this one provided a visual record of individuals and moments that might otherwise have been lost to time, emphasizing the importance of personal histories in the broader narrative of American life.

As a member of the Bain News Service, Reeve’s image contributes to a broader understanding of societal figures of that time, highlighting the role of photography in documenting contemporary culture. This glass negative not only represents a particular individual but also serves as a historical artifact from an era characterized by both innovation and change in the field of photography.