Harold M. Lambert
1939 Hand-Colorized Dog Portrait – Harold M. Lambert Commercial Proof
Collector’s Note
An original hand-colorized commercial proof created from a documented 1939 photograph by American photographer Harold M. Lambert. The black-and-white source image is archived by Getty Images, confirming attribution and date.
Two original hand-colorized commercial prints depicting a young girl in a patterned bonnet gently shaking hands with an English Springer Spaniel. The scene captures the narrative charm typical of late-1930s American advertising photography—idealized childhood paired with loyal companion imagery.
The black-and-white source image appears in the Getty Images archive as Girl Holding Hand of Dog, editorial #671673965, credited to Harold M. Lambert with a creation date of January 1, 1939.
These examples represent studio production proofs prepared prior to mechanical reproduction. Close inspection reveals smooth pigment application and the absence of halftone dot patterning, consistent with hand-applied color rather than later offset printing.
The rust-toned borders and slightly rough-cut edges reflect handling during mounting or layout preparation for calendar or advertising use.
Available Sizes (Sold Separately):
Print Size: 7” x 9” (image area not including border) – Very good condition, bright color, small scratch (not a tear) on colorized proof, near girl's bonnet, no fading, no tears, strong saturation. [$345.00]
Print Size: 10” x 12 ¾” (image area not including board) – Very good condition, bright color, small scratch (not a tear) on colorized proof near girls left knee, no fading, strong saturation. [$425.00]
Historical Reference
This commercial art proof was acquired in Joliet, Illinois, historically home to the Gerlach-Barklow Company, one of the leading American art calendar publishers of the early twentieth century. While the print itself is unmarked, the discovery location reflects the broader Midwestern calendar printing industry active during this period.
Framing Appeal
This piece is especially appealing to collectors of sporting dog imagery and cottage-style interiors. Framed in natural wood or white, it complements farmhouse, nursery, or country décor. The larger format offers stronger visual impact, while the smaller size works beautifully in a grouped display of early commercial photography.
Artist Biography
Harold M. Lambert (1917–1969) was an American photographer active from the late 1930s through the 1960s, producing editorial, commercial, and lifestyle imagery during the height of mid-century magazine culture. His work appeared in national publications—including LIFE—as well as promotional and advertising contexts.
Lambert’s photography is marked by clean composition, strong tonal control, and narrative warmth. Surviving hand-colorized commercial proofs reflect the studio practices of pre-war and mid-century advertising production and remain valued within photographic archives and the collector market.
