World War I Era Glass Negative Portrait, 1918

This striking glass negative captures a moment from August 31, 1918, featuring an individual identified as McCormack. Taken during World War I, this image reflects the cultural and historical context of the time, when photography was evolving as a key mode of documentation. The use of glass negatives was prominent in this era, allowing photographers to create detailed images that preserved moments in time with clarity. These negatives were typically prepared using a process that involved coating glass plates with light-sensitive chemicals, an innovative technique that marked significant advancements in photographic technology.

Taken by the Bain News Service, a well-known photographic agency of the early 20th century, this image contributes to our understanding of the media landscape of the time. Agencies like Bain played crucial roles in capturing and disseminating newsworthy events, thereby shaping public perception and historical narrative. The glass plate negative is not just a photograph; it represents a significant technological milestone that laid the foundation for modern photography. Through the meticulous preservation of such artifacts, we gain insight into both the personal stories of individuals like McCormack and the broader historical context of a world in conflict.