Scarce original pearl-finish 5.75 x 7.75 photographic proof of President William H. Taft by news photographer George Grantham Bain, which depicts Taft seated at his desk and looking squarely into the camera during the first year of his administration. Inherent to the image is a 1909 copyright mark and notations to lower border: “Pres. Taft in White House, 212-12.” This photographic proof is similar to a better-known image by Bain that is in the Library of Congress Collection. In very good to fine condition, with light silvering and edge wear; the photo is detached from its original mount.



Bain (1865-1944) was a photographer who started his service in 1898 and focused on newsworthy events in New York City and along the east coast. His photographic range was wide, covering politics, the arts, sports, and crime.