Cord in Harlem c. 1936 - 1989

"Cord in Harlem" is a black and white photograph taken by John Gutmann, c. 1936 - 1989. The photograph depicts a man standing beside a Cord 810, a luxury car, in Harlem, New York. The focus of the photograph is on the car, specifically the front grill and the bumper, but the presence of the man standing beside the car suggests the social commentary that Gutmann's street photography is known for. This snapshot of everyday life captures the changing urban landscape of the 1930s and 1940s, where automobiles were a symbol of progress and aspiration. Gutmann's sharp focus and contrasting light and shadow create a visual sense of drama and urgency, reflecting the social and economic changes of the era.