Beatrice Tonnesen – Photographer & Artist

The blond toddler shown in Tonnesen photos and prints circa 1917-20 has been identified as Jane Berghauer (1916-1994). She had earlier been identified by fellow models as Janie Burkhardt or Janie Berkhauer. Searching on close matches, I found that the Chicago Tribune reported on November 3, 1917 that Jane Berghauer had placed second in a “prettiest baby” contest [...]

Album 14 – Photo Advertising was added to the Slideshow.  This album accompanies the post Tonnesen Sisters: Pioneers in Photo Advertising.

Before the Tonnesen Sisters became known for their art prints, they were known for their pioneering work in advertising. In the 1890’s, they came up with the idea of using live models in advertising photos. With Beatrice handling the creative work and Clara tending to business affairs, they marketed their historic new technique nationwide, with [...]