1890s William Maitland of Brooklyn

Will Maitland. Cabinet photo detail. Kempf’s Photo-Art. Private Collection.

This is a large cabinet card measuring 4″ x 8″ with the picture taking the whole front. On the back this fine gentleman is IDed as Will Maitland. He looks proud with a hand on his hip. Larger pictures do make the fabrics and details stand out. Will is wearing what looks like a nice suit with two-toned buttons. His shoes don’t appear to be boots but have no laces either.

Photographer: Kempf’s Photo-Art – Gallery. 185 Myrtle Avenue. Artistic pictures of children a specialty.

Charles L. Kempf was a German born photographer who began operating a Brooklyn studio in at least the late 1870s, the studio was named after himself. He was listed in a Brooklyn business directory as early as 1874. A new business name, “Kempf’s Photographic Art Gallery” was established in the 1890′s and was in business until at least 1905. He is listed in some directories at 185 Myrtle Ave.; 627 Myrtle; and 177 Duffield, Brooklyn, NY (1888) (1889). Later under his business name at: Kempf’s Photo-Art Gallery, 185 Myrtle Ave. and 627 Myrtle Ave., Brooklyn, NY (1890s-1905).

Another card and more info on the photographer: The Cabinet Card Art Gallery