Description
Photograph, 'Adolf Lazi self-portrait', black and white, silver gelatin print, by Adolf Lazi, Stuttgart, Germany, 1928-1932. An interior view featuring Adolf Lazi in his studio in Stuttgart as it was during the period that Hedda worked there as a volunteer. Lazi is seated in an armchair to the left of the image, in profile facing right and reading a book. Behind the chair is a ceiling to floor curtain. Above and to his right is a curtained window below which is shelf with books and pot plants. In the centre of the room is a coffee table and footstool. Typed on paper and adhered to the back of the photograph is the text: '1928/1932 studio Adolf Lazi Diemershalde 48 in Stuttgart'.

Significance statement
Following the completion of her studies at the Bavarian State Institute for Photography in Munich, Hedda obtained voluntary work in the studio of Adolf Lazi (1884-1955) in Stuttgart, from September 1931 to August 1932. Paid jobs were difficult to find during the Depression years, especially for young graduates. The studio produced mainly architectural, portrait, landscape and advertising photography. Adolf Lazi's photographs reflect an interest in 'new realist' close-up views and extreme vantage points. At the end of 1932, Adolf Lazi wrote the following of Hedda in a reference: '[her] professional skills have been greatly consolidated during the year of practical experience and excellent achievements can be expected of her in the profession. Unfortunately economic conditions preclude us from employing her on a salaried basis'.

Production notes
This image is a self-portrait taken in Stuttgart, Germany, between 1928 and 1932, by Adolf Lazi. After Adolf Lazi's death in 1955, the Lazi Studio/Lazi Academy was managed by Adolf Lazi's wife, Eta Lazi, and later by his son, Adolf Ingo Lazi. In 1987, the Lazi Studio/Lazi Academy/Adolf Lazi Archive was moved to Schloesslesweg 48-50, D 73732 Esslingen.

Credit line
Gift of Mr Franz Lazi, 1993

Design marks
Photograph, marked: '1928 Adolf Lazi in his studio Diemershalde 48 Stuttgart'.

Registration number
93/178/2