Ira L. Hill (1876-1947) American, Photograph of Ballerina Anna Pavlova in her signature role as The Dragonfly. Vintage black-and-white photograph captures a ballerina in a graceful, dramatic pose wearing a translucent flowing costume, featuring an autograph along the lower margin and set within a carved gilt frame. Signed along bottom. Framed.

Size: 13 1/2 x 10 1/4 in.
Sight Size: 9 1/2 x 6 1/2 in.

Ira L. Hill (1876–1947) was an influential American photographer whose New York studio became a leading destination for society, fashion, theatrical, and celebrity portraiture during the early 20th century. After establishing his own studio around 1905, Hill developed a distinctive soft-focus style, often using painted or rustic backgrounds to create portraits with a refined, almost painterly atmosphere. He became particularly prominent in the 1910s and 1920s, photographing actresses, dancers, fashion figures, and members of New York’s social elite, with his work appearing frequently in publications including Vanity Fair, Town & Country, and Theatre. Hill was also an important early fashion photographer and created celebrated portraits of performers such as Anna Pavlova and Vernon and Irene Castle. His extensive body of work is preserved in collections including the Smithsonian Institution, reflecting his significant role in the development of American society and theatrical photography.

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