LARGE 1940S AFRICAN AMERICAN MAN FORMAL PORTRAIT CELLULOID METAL PLAQUE PHOTO

Item #1670

Large mid-century celluloid-over-metal portrait plaque featuring a formal studio portrait of an African American man in suit, tie, and wire-rim glasses. The sepia-toned image is set within a rounded rectangular black plaque with a gold inner border. The reverse is black embossed metal with a raised oval impression and decorative corner elements, showing iridescent rainbow-like surface effects from manufacture and age.

Measuring approximately 6 x 8 inches, this is larger and more substantial than a standard snapshot or paper portrait, and was likely intended as a durable domestic display piece. The sitter is unidentified, but the portrait is notably dignified and beautifully composed, with a direct, serious expression and strong mid-century presence.

Surface wear, scuffing, rubbing, and small abrasions throughout, with some spotting and age toning to the image. The edges and reverse show expected wear, including scratches and small areas of loss to the glossy surface. The original easel stand on the reverse is missing, leaving the two stand attachment slots visible. Overall very good, with this noted absence, as an unusual surviving example of a mid-century vernacular portrait object.

A handsome and uncommon African American photographic portrait in celluloid and metal, notable both for its scale and its strong formal presentation.

Price: $125.00