Michael Lehr Antiques
Live Auction

March 2026 Unreserved Photo Auction — Curiosities, Performers & Vernacular Photography

Sat, Mar 28, 2026 01:00PM EDT
  2026-03-28 13:00:00 2026-03-28 13:00:00 America/New_York Michael Lehr Michael Lehr : March 2026 Unreserved Photo Auction — Curiosities, Performers & Vernacular Photography https://auction.michaellehrantiques.com/auctions/michael-lehr-antiques/march-2026-unreserved-photo-auction-curiosities-performers-vernacular-photography-22648
Our March 2026 auction presents a wide selection of historical photographs, postcards, entertainment memorabilia, and visual curiosities spanning the mid-nineteenth through twentieth centuries. Every lot is offered completely without reserve, ensuring that each item sells to the highest bidder regardless of price. Combined purchases totaling $500 or more qualify for free shipping, providing collectors an added incentive to bid across multiple lots. The unreserved format creates opportunities for both new and experienced collectors to acquire unusual and historically interesting material.
Michael Lehr Antiques info@michaellehrantiques.com
Lot 102

Cabinet Card; Man Displaying Detailed Model Sailing Ship

Estimate: $50 - $400
Starting Bid
$10

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $10
$200 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
Cabinet card studio portrait of a young man posed beside an intricately constructed model sailing ship, photographed by Church, 53 Donegall Place, Belfast. The sitter stands beside a table supporting the finely detailed ship model, which features multiple masts, extensive rigging, and small flags including a British Union flag at the stern. The subject rests one hand lightly against the rigging, emphasizing the craftsmanship of the miniature vessel.

The man wears a dark jacket and high-collared shirt typical of late nineteenth-century studio portraiture. His association with the ship model suggests the image may document a personal craft project, maritime interest, or occupation connected to shipbuilding or seafaring, both important industries in Belfast during the period.

The mount imprint identifies the photographer as Church, operating at 53 Donegall Place, a prominent commercial street in central Belfast known for photographic studios in the late nineteenth century. The reverse shows heavy album removal marks and adhesive residue indicating the card was once mounted in a photograph album.

Portraits incorporating elaborate handmade models are less commonly encountered and often reflect the sitter’s personal pride in craftsmanship or maritime connections.

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Spend $500 or more at our auction and all of your SHIPPING IS FREE, buyers to pay insurance if they want it.