Atlanta Georgia Little Girl With Billiken Toy Doll 1909 Real Photo Postcard

Infant photography in the early 20th century frequently employed studio settings, often with minimal backdrops to focus on the child. Babies were commonly dressed in white or light-colored, often elaborate, garments, and posed with props such as wicker furniture and favorite toys like dolls. This particular image captures Martha Louise at eight months old, a significant developmental stage, weighing 16½ pounds and already mobile, as noted by the inscription.

Such portraits served as cherished family keepsakes, documenting a child's early milestones and appearance for future generations. The inclusion of a beloved doll, "Billiem," highlights the personal world of the child and the sentimental value placed on these companions. These images reflect the cultural emphasis on childhood innocence and the desire to preserve fleeting moments of infancy through formal photographic records.