Berenice Abbott papers, 1927-1992 (bulk 1960-1992).

Links

• View catalog record
• View PDF finding aid (208.91 KB)

Creator

Abbott, Berenice, 1898-1991.

Location

Manuscripts and Archives Division

Extent

• 5.5 linear feet (12 boxes).

Access Restrictions

Advance notice required. Apply at http://www.nypl.org/mssref

Scope/Contents Note

The Berenice Abbott papers contain correspondence, writings, photographs, and personal materials relating to the life and career of the noted photographer. The bulk of the collection consists of personal and business letters that Abbott received from notable artists, writers,and public figures; art galleries, universities, photographic magazines, scientific journals, and publishers. Prominent correspondents include Djuna Barnes,Kay Boyle, Cornell Capa, Lisette Model, Marianne Moore, and Jacqueline Onassis. Other materials include notebooks concerning science and the economy, ideas for photographicsubjects, and improvements to photographic equipment; diaries, with sporadic entries detailing her daily life; photographs; and personal and family materials, among thema 1939 interview with Abbott conducted by the Works Progress Administration. While the collection includes photographs of Abbott with family and friends, photographsand snapshots taken by Abbott later in life, and documentation of the layout and exhibit spaces for severalof Abbott's exhibitions, it is not, however, a major source for Abbott's photography.

Biographical/Historical Note

Berenice Abbott (1898-1991) was an American photographer best known for her black and white photography of New YorkCity's architecture.

Controlled Access Terms

• Abbott, Berenice, 1898-1991.
• Architectural photography.
• Photography, Artistic.
• Photography -- Scientific applications.
• Women photographers -- United States.
• Diaries.
• Photographs.
• Photographers.

Additional Creator Names

• Barnes, Djuna.
• Boyle, Kay, 1902-1992.
• Capa, Cornell.
• McCausland, Elizabeth, 1899-1965.
• Model, Lisette, 1901-1983.
• Moore, Marianne, 1887-1972.
• Onassis, Jacqueline Kennedy, 1929-1994.