Circa 1940s Home Interiors by James H. Law

James H. Law, also known as Jimmy, was a 1919 graduate of Lincoln University. His wife, Dr. Thelma Patten Law, M.D. was a 1927 graduate of Howard University School of Medicine. They were members of Sigma Pi Phi , also known as the Boule, a professional and cultural associations for black professionals - doctors, lawyers, teachers - who were banned from such associations organized by the white community. These black professionals were the people with whom they surrounded themselves.  Their homes reflected their stature in the community.  Jimmy loved to photograph interiors of his own and his friend's homes.


Take a look at some:

The Crocheted Lace Dolies were not vintage then 

Key elements of 1940s interior design abound in these photographs: maple furniture; flowered wallpaper. Color palettes like orange, green, butter, and rose. Lots of artwork.

The Baby Grand Piano adds to the Grandeur of the Living Room

Looks like they may have had a 1948 Admiral Bakelite Television!

An Orange Bedroom with Vanity

I am working on putting together a digital book of Jimmy's circa 1940s interiors. Stay tuned.

James H. Law, Photographer

James H. Law, Self Portrait