James Van Der Zee was a renowned African American photographer known for his iconic portraits of Black Americans during the Harlem Renaissance in the early 20th century. Born in Lenox, Massachusetts in 1886, Van Der Zee moved to Harlem in 1906, where he opened his own photography studio in 1916.

Van Der Zee became known for his beautifully composed studio portraits that captured the vibrancy and elegance of Harlem's Black community. His subjects ranged from everyday people to prominent figures such as Marcus Garvey, Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, and Countee Cullen.

Van Der Zee's work is celebrated for its artistic and historical significance, providing a visual record of the lives and achievements of Black Americans during a crucial period of cultural rebirth and expression. His photographs continue to be a source of inspiration and pride for many today.