Vintage Portrait of a New York Architect, 1915-1920

This photograph captures Walter H. Hall, a notable figure from the early 20th century, taken between 1915 and 1920 by a Bain News Service photographer. Hall was a prominent architect based in New York City, contributing to the city’s iconic skyline during a time of rapid development and change. His work often reflected the architectural trends of the era, emphasizing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The image itself is a glass negative, a common medium used during this period for capturing and preserving photographs. Glass negatives offered high detail and clarity, making them ideal for documentation purposes. This photograph is not just a portrait of Hall but also an illustration of the practices in photography and documentation during the early 1900s. The Bain News Service played a significant role in visual journalism, and this image stands as a testament to the era’s burgeoning interest in capturing public figures and everyday life.