Lionel Hampton Jazz Orchestra Performance Publicity Photographs Appraisal

Lionel Hampton Jazz Orchestra Performance Publicity Photographs

This pair of black and white gelatin silver prints or high-quality publicity lithographs features the legendary jazz vibraphonist and bandleader Lionel Hampton performing with his orchestra. The lower photograph, which is the most prominent, shows a wide-angle view of the stage with the name 'LIONEL HAMPTON' clearly displayed on a background riser. The image captures several musicians, including a drummer, double bassist, and brass players, with Hampton himself positioned toward the front near his signature vibraphone. The upper photograph offers a tighter, more candid stage perspective featuring a standing vocalist or musician in a suit, a drummer in the background, and members of the rhythm section. Both images are captured in a mid-20th-century aesthetic, likely dating from the 1950s or 1960s. The prints appear to be on standard semi-glossy or matte photographic paper with white borders. Regarding condition, the prints show some slight rippling and edge wear consistent with age and handling. There are no immediate signs of significant creasing, staining, or fading, though minor silvering or foxing might be visible upon close physical inspection. The tonal range is good, providing strong contrast between the stage shadows and the musicians' formal attire. These items represent a significant era in American jazz history and would typically serve as press kit materials or promotional theater lobby cards.