Introduction: Susan K. Seyl

Publisher/Date: Oregon Historical Society (1980, 1st printing) Published in conjunction with a traveling exhibition

Format/Condition: New, unread, softcover in near fine condition. 28 pages of text and 109 b/w plates; measures 9×9”

Description: The group of photographs shown in this volume represents the first five decades of the Cronise studio’s existence, the years 1880-1927, the latter date the year of Tom Cronise’s death. Although the collection contains a number of significant views of early Salem, the strength of the collection lies in its portraits — a powerful and unique visual account of a special time and place.

The photographs in this volume are remarkable, not only for their style and technical excellence, but for their presence. There is an elusive quality that forces the viewer to examine the images more closely and to discover their strength. The best seem to penetrate the mantle of formalized studio sittings and allow entry, momentarily, into the inner being of the subject. The eyes are often the most direct route to the mind, but a smile, a wrinkle, a posture, or a tilt to the hat also speak a language we instinctively understand. Clothing is rendered in detail and commands nearly tactile examination of laces, velvets and silks, stiff collars, tweeds and straw hats. This sharpness and texture may partially explain the immediacy one feels when looking at these photographs.

During his 25-year career Thomas Jefferson Cronise produced thousands of images of persons and places. His success was determined by his talent, his determination to excel, his enterprising nature and his position as an integral member of the community. But the key to his success lies with one crucial element — he knew many of his subjects well enough to pose them to advantage. His resultant insight allowed him to create the compelling, intimate characterizations so essential to fine portraiture. Because of this, his work merits recognition as that of a superb photographic craftsman.

The Cronise Collection captures the spirit of a town, a time and a people. Through its images we truly see the art perfected.