Original antique blue-toned studio portrait of two young girls, presented in its original W.A. Sprinkle folding studio folder from 51 Third Ave., between 10th and 11th Streets, New York. The portrait is especially appealing because it survives as a complete presentation piece rather than just a loose photograph.
The W.A. Sprinkle name is documented beyond this folder. A museum object record describes a photograph mounted in a brown studio folder of W.A. Sprinkle, 51 3rd Ave., and a Swann Galleries lot records a W.A. Sprinkle New York photograph dated 1926. That does not date this exact portrait, but it supports the legitimacy of the studio attribution and places Sprinkle within the early 20th-century New York photography trade.
Based on the visual style of the children’s clothing, bobbed haircuts, and the folder presentation, this portrait is likely from the 1910s–1920s, though that is an informed estimate rather than a documented date. It has strong decorative appeal as vernacular photography and would also fit well in a collection of New York studio portraits.
Condition
Good antique condition. Folder shows expected age wear, including edge wear, corner wear, and light surface soiling. Photograph has age toning and a few small spots/marks visible in the image area. Nothing on verso. Please see photos for condition.
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