Alma Lavenson papers, 1855-1985.

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Summary

Title:
Alma Lavenson papers,
Dates:
1855-1985.
Creators:
Lavenson, Alma, 1897-1989, creator. https://id.oclc.org/worldcat/entity/E39PBJc7VtKkVrGWfFG8Vf4cyd http://id.loc.gov/authorities/names/n79083704, Western Jewish History Center. 281., Judah L. Magnes Museum. WJHC 1979.004., and Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life. https://id.oclc.org/worldcat/entity/E39QH7JmrwfTgwWrWycrQqGdGR http://id.loc.gov/authorities/names/no2014158222
Abstract:
The collection consists of a copy of Alma Lavenson's oral history, an interview with her, genealogical material and family history, catalogues and publicity of her photography exhibitions, and photographs of Alma growing up and of her family.
Extent:
0.2 and (1
Language:
English
Preferred citation:
Alma Lavenson papers, BANC MSS 2010/819, The Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life, The Bancroft Library, University of California, Berkeley.

Background

Biographical / historical:
Alma Lavenson was born in San Francisco in 1897. After the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, her family moved to Oakland where her father opened a dry goods store. By the 1920s, Lavenson had become a professional photographer and was acquainted with other well-known photographers who were experimenting with new camera techniques and subject matter. Her meeting with Edward Weston and friendship with Imogen Cunningham influenced her work to move away from a soft, lyrical quality towards more abstract and austere imagery. In the 1930s, she began photographing California Mother Lode sites to record "those remaining bits and fragments which still speak of ... the [18]50s and [18]60s." One of Lavenson's photographs, "American Indian," was among those selected for the esteemed Family of Man show that was held at New York's Museum of Modern Art (1955). She married Matthew Wahrhaftig.
Acquisition information:

Judah L. Magnes Museum;

Judah L. Magnes Museum;

Physical description:
0.2 linear feet (1 box)
Note:
COLLECTION STORED OFF-SITE:

Access and use

Restrictions:
COLLECTION STORED OFF-SITE:
Preferred citation:
Alma Lavenson papers, BANC MSS 2010/819, The Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life, The Bancroft Library, University of California, Berkeley.
Location of this collection:
University of California, Berkeley, The Bancroft Library
Berkeley, CA 94720-6000, US
Contact:
510-642-6481
bancref-library@berkeley.edu
Website