This charming vintage photograph, taken at the esteemed Waters Studio in Chicago, captures two young women in an elegant pose. They are performers from the early 1900s. The pair stand side by side, holding large feathered props in the shape of arches above their heads, suggesting they are mid-performance or posing to highlight their costumes and artistry. The women are dressed in elaborate, ruffled costumes with matching skirts and blouses accented by puffed sleeves. Their outfits, along with their detailed lace-up boots, are typical of the turn-of-the-century vaudeville or theatrical performers. The expressions on their faces—one with a playful smile and the other with a more subdued but confident demeanor—reveal a sense of joy and professionalism, hinting at their comfort in front of the camera. These young women could very well be professional dancers, actresses, or variety show performers showcasing their talent and stage presence. This photograph, including its mount, measures approximately 6 x 8.5 inches, while the image itself is about 3 5/8 x 5.25 inches. The condition is excellent for its age, with minimal wear to the edges of the mount and crisp details in the image. There is an embossed “Waters Studio, Chicago” mark in the mounts corner. The Waters Studio was known for its striking photographic work during the early 20th century, capturing the essence of its subjects with skill and precision. I have had the pleasure of owning three other photographs by this studio, all of which sold quickly—a testament to the photographer’s exceptional talent and the enduring appeal of their work. Photographer, J. Edgar Waters wrote an article for a business magazine. “The Magazine of Business” (1915) contains an article entitled “The One-Man Business”. In the article, Waters provides practical advice about business record keeping. SOLD
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