1951 Cuba Original Photo – Manuel Sánchez y Su Conjunto – Havana Cuban Musicians

Original 1951 Cuban Musical Group Photograph – Manuel Sánchez y Su Conjunto – Havana, Cuba

Striking original vintage black-and-white photograph depicting the Cuban musical ensemble identified in the handwritten inscription as “Manuel Sánchez y su conjunto.”

The musicians are formally posed with an impressive array of instruments, including piano, guitar, upright bass, trumpets, conga drums, bongos and maracas. One of the large percussion drums is prominently decorated with the word “HABANA,” adding an especially appealing period Cuban detail.

A handwritten dedication in green ink appears across the upper left portion of the photograph. The inscription includes the name Manuel Sánchez and appears to include a 1951 date, providing valuable period context directly on the photograph.

The exact identity of Manuel Sánchez and the ensemble has not been conclusively established. Historical records document more than one Cuban musician or ensemble associated with that name, so this photograph is offered without an unsupported attribution to a particular known performer.

Size: 7"x5"

Period: Apparently 1951
Origin: Cuba
Subject: Manuel Sánchez y su conjunto
Format: Original black-and-white photograph
Theme: Cuban music / Havana nightlife / Latin music history

Condition: Original vintage condition with substantial handling wear, including creases, wrinkles, edge and corner wear, surface marks and areas of cracking or emulsion disturbance, particularly around the perimeter and upper corners. Original green handwritten inscription remains clearly visible. Reverse is blank with age toning and minor spotting. Please examine all photographs for exact condition.

An evocative surviving image of mid-century Cuban popular music culture, particularly desirable for collectors of Cuban photography, Cuban music memorabilia, Havana history and Latin American musical ephemera.