Carl Van Vechten [New York City]

Carl Van Vechten (June 17, 1880 – December 21, 1964), original, silver gelatin print of New York cityscape entitled "Italian Grocer on 9 Ave." It is now known as the Ninth Ave. International Food Festival.

This unsigned, vintage Van Vechten image, features the photographer's original credit stamp on its verso along with the title ""Italian Grocer on 9 Ave."," unique roman numeral archive number "XII gg 8," and printing date "April 30 - 52," all in the artist's hand. The photograph measuring approximately 7 x 9 inches, printed on a thick weight matte stock, is in fine condition aside from some minor age wear, soiling and its original slightly irregularly trimmed edges.

Van Vechten, the celebrated American writer and photographer, was the literary executer of Gertrude Stein and a key figure of the Harlem Renaissance movement. He captured iconic images of all the key members in the worlds of Art, Theater, Music, and Literature. Van Vechten viewed his photography as a hobby; he never took commissions, he never sold photographs. He would grant permission to publish them, but had strict requirements to do so. He was a prominent fixture in 20th century photography collections with his work being included in such institutions as The Library of Congress, The Museum of The City of New York and The Smithsonian Institution.