Vintage Photo of the Week

Reception in the Office of the C. J. Walker Company, 1929
James VanDerZee
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
Gift of The James VanDerZee Institute, 1970

One of my favorite photographers of the Harlem Renaissance Era is the late James VanDerZee. His work was more than photography, it was art. Not only was he a photographer, but he was a keeper of the record of Black life, producing the most comprehensive collection of Black images during the period. I loved the way he captured the dignity, class and style of Black people at a time when that image of Black people was rarely seen.

The above photo was taken by Mr. VanDerZee c. 1929. It shows a group of fabulous, well-heeled sistas attending a reception in the office of Madam C.J. Walker's C. J. Walker Company.

Enjoy!