This dynamic vintage press photograph captures a joyous and stylish moment at what appears to be a mid-century African-American social event or pageant, photographed by Jimmy H. Baynes, a notable African-American photographer who was active in Cleveland, Ohio. The image dates likely to the late 1950s or early 1960s, an era when such gatherings were vital community affairs celebrating Black excellence, fashion, and music. The central focus is a beautifully posed group of six African-American women, all elegantly dressed in cocktail or evening wear. The women wear a range of fashionable 1950s attire, from a sharp houndstooth pantsuit and flowing evening gowns to a crisp white suit. Their hairstyles are elegant and era-appropriate, and their expressions range from joy to pride to graceful composure. The setting appears to be a formal banquet hall or community venue, likely in Cleveland. Each woman holds a trophy, suggesting the conclusion of a pageant, award ceremony, or fashion competition. The photograph is the work of Jimmy H. Baynes, a prominent African-American photographer who chronicled the Black social and cultural scene in Cleveland throughout the mid-20th century. His work often captured the heart of the community—beauty pageants, civic events, family milestones, and musical gatherings—preserving an important visual history that is increasingly recognized and appreciated by collectors and scholars. The photographer of this photograph, Jimmy Baynes was known for his ability to capture the essence of African American life, culture, and entertainment from the 1950s through the 1980s. Originally a postal worker, Baynes pursued photography as a passion, ultimately founding Baynes Foto Service. His work chronicled the vibrancy of mid-century African American social life, from intimate gatherings and beauty contests to the pulsating energy of live music performances and political events. Baynes photographed some of the most iconic figures in entertainment history, including Aretha Franklin, Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, Mahalia Jackson, Louis Jordan, Jerry Lee Lewis, the Platters, and the Drifters. His ability to capture both candid and staged moments gave his work a lasting impact, preserving the rich history of Cleveland’s African American community. His legacy is recognized today by institutions such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum Library and Archives in Cleveland, which houses a collection of his photographs, primarily focusing on music and entertainment. In 2010, shortly before his passing, his work was featured in the “Polaroid: Instant Joy” exhibition in Brooklyn, New York, reaffirming his role as a visual storyteller of African American life in the mid-20th century. This photograph was taken in the 1950’s. (SOLD)
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 