Michael Lehr Antiques
Live Auction

Winter Photographic History Auction 2026

Sat, Jan 31, 2026 01:00PM EST
  2026-01-31 13:00:00 2026-01-31 13:00:00 America/New_York Michael Lehr Michael Lehr : Winter Photographic History Auction 2026 https://auction.michaellehrantiques.com/auctions/michael-lehr-antiques/winter-photographic-history-auction-2026-21839
We are pleased to present our Winter Photography Auction, opening January 31 at 1:00 PM Eastern, featuring approximately 270 individual lots spanning the full breadth of 19th- and early 20th-century photography. The sale brings together landmark historical images, rare early photographic processes, and a deep selection of vernacular material created outside the conventions of formal studio portraiture. Collectively, these works offer a direct, unfiltered record of American life, identity, conflict, labor, and memory during photography’s formative century.
Michael Lehr Antiques info@michaellehrantiques.com
Lot 332

Cabinet Card, Tin Shop Storefront with Proprietors

Estimate: $100 - $200
Starting Bid
$50

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 photograph showing the exterior of a tin shop, likely late 19th century, based on the mount style and storefront architecture. The image depicts two men standing in front of a glass-front commercial space with a fabric awning. Painted lettering reading “TIN SHOP” is visible on the interior transom or window. Tinware and stoves are displayed prominently inside the shop, including a large cast iron stove positioned near the right entrance. One man stands in the doorway wearing work clothes and an apron, while the other, more formally dressed, stands near the opposite entrance, suggesting proprietor and worker roles.

The photograph is an occupational and commercial street view, documenting a small-town trade business and its presentation to the public. Such storefront cabinet cards were often produced to advertise local enterprises or to serve as souvenirs, and the open doors and carefully arranged display emphasize both the goods offered and the individuals associated with the shop.

The mount is a standard cabinet card format with rounded corners. The verso is largely blank but bears faint period pencil inscriptions, including the words “Tin Shop” and a reference to Ohio, consistent with the note provided, though no photographer’s imprint is visible. A small penciled number appears in the upper corner.

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