Hand Colored Photograph by Ray Jerome Baker: Ceylon Morning Glory

Six cup-shaped blooms drift against a dark brown void like pale moths.

This hand colored photograph is by Ceylon Morning Glory, and dates to the mid 20th century. Hand colored photographs were made by applying transparent oils or dyes to a black and white print, a practice that was common before color film became widely available. Looking closer, a horizontal image in dark sepia tones, with several open, cup-like flowers in pale grey tones scattered on thin stems. Each bloom shows a small round center and soft folded petals. The background is deep and nearly solid. It is 5 inches wide and 7 high.

Quietly dramatic, as if the lights were lowered for them.