Benjamin Falk in New York – A photograph of Helena Modrzejewska in her stage costume from around....

[HelenaMODRZEJEWSKA — portrait photograph — cabinet-size print]. [ca. 1890]. Photograph measuring 14.8 x 10.2 cm on an original cardboard mount measuring 16.7 x 10.8 cm, taken at [Benjamin J.] Falk’s studio in New York.
The actress is depicted in a three-quarter-length portrait, in profile, wearing a stage costume. The photograph is mounted on an original cardboard backing with a red border. Printed on the lower margin of the backing: “Modjeska,” “Falk 949 Broadway. N. Y.” on the lower margin of the backing. Slight damage to the upper left corner; some localized staining.
H. Modrzejewska (1840–1909) — an outstanding Polish actress, a star of the Polish and American stages, one of the most distinguished actresses in the history of theater, and the performer of the most brilliant tragic roles in the plays of William Shakespeare. She emigrated to America in 1876.
Benjamin J. Falk (1853–1925) — an American photographer of theater and film stars, active in New York (at the address shown in the photo from 1883 to 1892), noted for his technical mastery, capable of lending actors’ portraits exceptional vividness and depth, and bringing out details in costumes through the use of artificial electric lighting.