Original Early Albumen Photograph of Women Weight Lifting

Women in Sports

Photograph

19 century vintage albumen photograph featuring four rows of women holding free weights in a gymnasium. Image itself Measuring 8.25" x 5" inches mounted on photographer's board of aprox 10" x 8" inches. Albumen print. Circa 1890's. The women stand in tightly single file rows holding dumbbell weights in both hands at shoulder height ready to raise their arms above their heads. Their faces are composed, most of them unsmiling, though a few smiles seem to break through, making light of the occasion. The women wear long skirts in solid colors with low-heeled boots just visible beneath and shirtwaist blouses, some adorned in small bows at the neck or leather bags at the hip. The classroom is long with wooden floors and wooden planked walls and ceiling with pipes and ducts exposed, an apparent recreational space or Gymnasium. The portrait documents women's fitness as a novel endeavor. Photographer's board has wearing along the edges and one small ink blot. Photograph is sepia toned and well defined though somewhat overexposed, but subjects are clearly visible. Such an early image of weight lifting for women is scarce; in very good condition.

Item #17862

Price: $255.00