Salt Lake City Utah Idaho Japanese American Men Studio Portrait 1917 Real Photo Postcard

The formal attire of the two East Asian men, including suits and bow ties, is characteristic of early 20th-century fashion, likely placing this studio portrait between the 1900s and 1920s. During this period, studio photography became increasingly accessible, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds to capture moments of personal significance, often reflecting aspirations of respectability or marking important life events.

Such portraits offer a valuable glimpse into the lives of East Asian individuals during an era of significant global migration and evolving social landscapes. Their formal presentation underscores the role of photography in documenting personal identity and social standing amidst broader historical movements and cultural exchanges, whether as immigrants adapting to new cultural norms or as professionals in their home countries embracing Western sartorial trends.