African American Cowboy Studio Portrait Western Gun Belt 1908–1915 Real Photo Postcard
This postcard likely captures an African American man posing as a cowboy in a studio setting, a common practice in the early 20th century (c. 1900-1920s). Dressed in an elaborate outfit featuring a wide-brimmed hat, jodhpurs, gaiters, and a prominent bullet belt with a holstered revolver, he embodies the romanticized image of the American West. The painted backdrop, depicting mountains and open country, further enhances this staged portrayal.
Historically, African Americans played a significant, though often overlooked, role as cowboys in the post-Civil War American West, with estimates suggesting one in four cowboys was Black. Images such as this challenged prevailing racial stereotypes and contributed to a broader, albeit still developing, recognition of their contributions to frontier life. Such portraits often served as personal mementos or publicity for performers in traveling Wild West shows, popular entertainment forms that shaped public perceptions of the Western frontier.
Historically, African Americans played a significant, though often overlooked, role as cowboys in the post-Civil War American West, with estimates suggesting one in four cowboys was Black. Images such as this challenged prevailing racial stereotypes and contributed to a broader, albeit still developing, recognition of their contributions to frontier life. Such portraits often served as personal mementos or publicity for performers in traveling Wild West shows, popular entertainment forms that shaped public perceptions of the Western frontier.
