Michael Lehr Antiques
Live Auction

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 213

Daguerreotype Mother in Lace Shawl Holding Infant

Estimate: $200 - $300
Starting Bid
$100

Bid Increments

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$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 a seated woman holding an infant, posed in a close, intimate studio portrait. The format and presentation are consistent with mid-19th century American work. The woman faces the camera with a composed expression, her hair parted at the center and drawn back, while the child sits supported in her lap, turned slightly outward toward the viewer.

She wears a dark dress with a wide lace shawl or collar draped over her shoulders, featuring a delicate repeating pattern that contrasts against the darker fabric beneath. The infant is dressed in a light-colored gown, creating a strong tonal contrast that draws attention to the child’s face and form. The mother’s hands are carefully positioned to support the child, with both figures set against a plain studio backdrop that isolates them within the frame.

The image is presented behind a gilt brass mat with a distinctive octagonal opening, its textured surface framing the composition tightly. A patterned textile is visible at the lower right, likely part of the studio furniture. No photographer’s imprint is visible.

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