Michael Lehr Antiques
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May Vernacular Photo History Auction

Wed, May 6, 2026 11:00AM EDT
  2026-05-06 11:00:00 2026-05-06 11:00:00 America/New_York Michael Lehr Michael Lehr : May Vernacular Photo History Auction https://auction.michaellehrantiques.com/auctions/michael-lehr-antiques/may-vernacular-photo-history-auction-22757
Michael Lehr Antiques info@michaellehrantiques.com
Lot 215

Daguerreotype Elderly Woman, Larwill Newark NJ Case

Estimate: $200 - $300
Starting Bid
$100

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 $2,500
Sixth plate daguerreotype of an elderly woman seated in a formal studio portrait, housed in a leather case bearing the label of E. Larwill, maker, Newark, N.J. The image presents a direct, unembellished likeness, characteristic of mid-19th century American portraiture, with the sitter facing forward and hands folded at the waist. The combination of oval mat and early case construction suggests an 1850s date.

The woman wears a dark dress with a fitted bodice and gathered sleeves, accented by a patterned neck scarf or fichu tucked at the collar. A white lace cap frames her face, contrasting with the darker tones of her clothing and emphasizing her features. Her posture is upright and composed, with both hands clasped together, while the plain studio background isolates the figure and heightens the clarity of the portrait.

The image is set behind a distinctive gilt brass mat with bold corner ornamentation and a smooth oval opening. The interior paper label reads “E. Larwill Maker Newark N.J.” beneath an eagle motif with stars and foliate elements. The exterior leather case features a geometric and scrollwork design with a central diamond form and pebbled texture, representing a less commonly encountered and regionally attributable case style.

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