James Van Der Zee was a renowned African American photographer known for his iconic portraits capturing the essence of the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s and 1930s. Born in Lenox, Massachusetts in 1886, Van Der Zee moved to New York City as a young man and established his photography studio in Harlem in 1916.

Van Der Zee's photography captured the vibrancy of the Harlem community during a time of cultural and intellectual flourishing among African Americans. He specialized in creating elegant and striking portraits of prominent figures, entertainers, and everyday people in Harlem, showcasing their style, grace, and dignity.

His work was particularly celebrated for its artistic and technical excellence, as he used innovative techniques such as double exposures and photomontage to create unique and visually impactful images. Van Der Zee's photographs have become iconic representations of the Harlem Renaissance and have had a lasting impact on the portrayal of African American life and culture during that time.

Although his fame waned after the Harlem Renaissance period, Van Der Zee's work experienced a resurgence of interest in the late 20th century, solidifying his legacy as one of the most important photographers of the era. His photographs continue to be celebrated for their beauty, historical significance, and contribution to Black history and visual culture.