Carl Van Vechten [Raymond Massey]

Carl Van Vechten (June 17, 1880 – December 21, 1964), original silver gelatin print of Canadian/American actor Raymond Massey on stage in a dramatic reading of Stephen Vincent Benét's John Brown's Body (1953). 

This unsigned, vintage Van Vechten image, features the photographer's original credit stamp on its verso along with the title "Raymond Massey / John Brown's Body" unique roman numeral archive number "XI KK 14"  and printing date "Mch 3 52" all in the artist's hand. Embossed to the bottom right on the front side is a "Photograph by Carl Van Vechten" original 'blind' stamp. 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.

Massey (August 30, 1896 – July 29, 1983) is best known for his roles as Sherlock Holmes, abolitionist John Brown, President Abraham Lincoln, Dr. Gillespie and Adam Trask (East of Eden).