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A striking and historically rich pair, these original Harvard University rowing crew photographs from 1923 and 1925 capture the spirit of early Ivy League athletics at its most refined. Presented in their original, matched period wood frames, the duo offers a cohesive and highly decorative display—equally suited to a study, library, or tailored “club room” interior.Each photograph is beautifully composed, showcasing the athletes in classic team formation, their expressions resolute and poised. The uniforms are particularly captivating: crisp, form-fitting athletic tops bearing the iconic “H,” paired with traditional rowing shorts and socks. The detailing is exceptional—subtle variations in fabric, striping, and insignia reveal the evolution of collegiate athletic style between the early 1920s and mid-decade, embodying the timeless, preppy aesthetic that continues to define Ivy League heritage today.The 1925 image is boldly dated across the uniforms, while the earlier photograph—featuring an undated uniform style—has been thoughtfully identified by a handwritten notation on the reverse, confirming Harvard University Crew and the year 1923. This added provenance enhances the pair’s authenticity and desirability for collectors of collegiate or sporting history.Each frame measures 13.75 inches wide, 11.25 inches high, and 0.75 inch deep. Both photographs exhibit a warm, sepia tone with remarkable clarity and depth, preserving fine facial features and textile details that speak to their quality and careful preservation over the past century. The original wood frames, with their understated patina and period character, complement the images beautifully without distraction. Good antique condition with expected age-related wear and signs of handling to the frames. Please review the photos for further condition assessment.Rarely encountered as a matched set, these photographs offer not only a window into Harvard’s storied rowing tradition but also a refined decorative statement—steeped in history, craftsmanship, and enduring Ivy League style.Check out our other antique listings.
