This remarkable collection encapsulates a pivotal 1928-1929 African expedition by the distinguished American artist William R. Leigh and his wife, Ethel Traphagen-Leigh, a prominent fashion designer and educator. Featuring over 230 meticulously developed glass slides by Joseph Hawkes of New York, this assortment offers a vivid portal into historic landscapes and cultures of Africa..-.The collection highlights iconic landmarks such as the Great Sphinx of Giza and The Citadel of Cairo, alongside intimate portrayals of various African tribes. Additionally, personal photographs of Leigh and Traphagen enrich this visual archive, providing a glimpse into their expeditionary life. While the majority of the slides are preserved in very good condition, fewer than ten exhibit signs of age-related wear, maintaining the authenticity and historical value of the set..-.Biographies:William Robinson Leigh (1866-1955)William R. Leigh, an illustrious American artist renowned for his vivid portrayals of the American West, embarked on this African adventure later in his career. Known as "the Sagebrush Rembrandt," Leigh's works are celebrated for their dynamic realism and exquisite detail, qualities that he brought to his expeditionary sketches and paintings. This journey with his wife not only expanded his artistic repertoire but also contributed significantly to the ethnographic and geographical documentation of early 20th-century Africa..-.Ethel Traphagen-Leigh (1882-1963)Ethel Traphagen-Leigh was a trailblazer in American fashion, founding the Traphagen School of Fashion in New York City, which significantly influenced American design and education. Her keen eye for design and detail was instrumental in documenting the diverse cultural attire and landscapes encountered during their travels. Ethel's contributions extend beyond fashion to a profound engagement with cultural preservation through the visual arts..-.This collection serves not only as a historical cross-section of African environments and societies but also as a testament to the Leighs' enduring legacy in both art and cultural documentation..

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