Michael Lehr Antiques
Live Auction

September 2026 Vernacular Photo History Auction

Sat, Sep 19, 2026 11:00AM EDT
  2026-09-19 11:00:00 2026-09-19 11:00:00 America/New_York Michael Lehr Michael Lehr : September 2026 Vernacular Photo History Auction https://auction.michaellehrantiques.com/auctions/michael-lehr-antiques/september-2026-vernacular-photo-history-auction-24380
Our September 2026 auction is anchored by two remarkable private collections, together making up about half the sale, alongside a broader selection of consignments spanning early photography, Civil War material, and vernacular imagery. The Soffer Collection, built with an eye for rarity and historical significance, is particularly strong in vernacular portraiture, Native American photographs, and Iowa Civil War imagery. The Palmer, Massachusetts collection, much of it found at Brimfield, centers on maker-marked daguerreotypes from the golden age of the American daguerreian studio.
Michael Lehr Antiques info@michaellehrantiques.com
Lot 231

CDV, Officer, 28th NY Militia, Schutze, Brooklyn

Estimate: $100 - $200
Starting Bid
$50

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$100 $10
$200 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
$50,000 $5,000
An officer of the 28th New York Militia stands at full length in this albumen CDV, produced by Schutze, Photographer, 491 Grand Street, Brooklyn. The format and imprint style place the image in the 1860s, consistent with the uniform details visible throughout. The subject's bearing and dress reflect the ceremonial pride of a state militia officer of the period.

He wears a dark frock coat with double epaulettes trimmed in fringe, a polished belt with a circular plate, and a tall black shako topped with a prominent black and white feather plume. Gold aiguillette chains drape across his chest, and he holds a sword at his side, its tassel hanging at the grip. His expression is direct and composed, and he stands on a plain studio floor against a neutral backdrop.

The 28th Regiment, New York State Militia was a Brooklyn-based unit active during the Civil War era, and this image likely dates from that period of heightened militia activity and formal portraiture. The full dress uniform with shako and plume was associated with parade and ceremonial occasions rather than field service.

The reverse bears a penciled inscription reading "28th NY Militia" and carries the printed studio imprint of Schutze, Photographer, 491 Grand St., Brooklyn.

From the collection of James Lee Soffer

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