#american vintage photo

It’s near-impossible not to smile when looking at this adorable photograph from 1910s America, an arm draped from each direction around the neck of the cheerful chap in the middle, and a tickle of his ear by the tip of a tongue at the precise moment the picture was taken!

A delightful double portrait from 1880s America - whether these handsome chaps are truly outdoors, or in the confines of a well-dressed studio set, I cannot tell, but what a lovely photograph either way!

Photographed toward the end of the 19th century in Wisconsin, two well-dressed American fellows in rather flash neckties and very different hats - I’m a little amused by the fit of the bowler, it appears so small as to perch very high on his head, balanced upon rather than snugly fitting around : I’d worry a sudden move or gust of wind may just dislodge it!

A charming pair of gentlemen in New York, late 19th or early 20th century, very different faces but both rather handsome!

An affectionate pair hold hands in their studio photograph, taken in turn-of-the-century America - note the little US flags tucked in hats, lapel buttonholes, and breast pocket.

Rather touching double portrait from a 19th Century New York photography studio. Close friends, relatives, or lovers - we will never know, but a charming moment of male affection immortalised in print.

Sir, I am utterly uncertain what you are sitting upon, but I have not featured a bearded fellow for quite some time, so you and your handsome companion find a welcome place in my collection.

For all those enthusiasts of the peculiarities and extraordinary eccentricities of mens’ swimwear in times gone by! Photographed near the beach of Coney Island, August the 15th, 1907 - all that is left lacking is the names for this pair sharing a seaside souvenir picture. One appears chipper and confident, while the other seems less certain about sitting before the camera!

Almost in danger of being upstaged by the set-dressing, a pair of smart bowler-hatted chaps from the 1870s.

Thenationality of a great many of these studio portraits is unknown, impossible to assume any country of origin without a photographer’s name and location on the mounting card, or clues in fashion or the likely occupation of the sitters. No such doubts here, the flag of the United States proudly displayed between them.