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 202

Daguerreotype Post Mortem Woman Portrait

Estimate: $300 - $500
Starting Bid
$150

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 post mortem daguerreotype of a deceased woman shown in a close, tightly framed composition, her head resting on a pillow and turned slightly to one side. The presentation and pose are consistent with mid-19th century post mortem portraiture, a common practice used to memorialize the dead. The circular mat opening isolates the figure against a dark background, emphasizing the face and upper torso.

The sitter’s eyes are closed and her expression is still, with the head supported by a light-colored pillow and cloth arranged beneath and around the neck. She wears a dark garment with a white collar or chemise, the contrast drawing attention to the face. The lighting is concentrated across the forehead and cheeks, while the surrounding field remains largely in shadow, creating a stark tonal separation.

The image is housed in a gilt brass preserver with a circular mat and set within a leather case. The mat has a finely textured gilt surface with visible spotting, and the case interior shows wear and deterioration along the right edge. No photographer’s imprint is visible.

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