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 228

Daguerreotype, Two Girls Portrait with Pendant

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 two young girls posed together in a studio portrait, one seated, the other standing ito create a closely arranged composition. The girl at left sits upright in a dark dress with a wide neckline, her hands folded neatly in her lap, while the girl at right stands beside her, resting one arm across the seated girl’s shoulder in a protective, familiar gesture. She wears a lighter-toned dress with short sleeves and a fitted waist, accented by a small pendant or watch suspended at the bodice.

Both children face the camera directly with composed, serious expressions typical of mid-19th century portraiture. Their hair is parted at the center and styled smoothly, with the standing child’s hair drawn back more tightly, reinforcing a slight age distinction. The physical closeness and relaxed arm placement strongly suggest siblings, with the standing child assuming a subtly guiding role within the composition.

The image is housed behind a gilt brass oval mat within a leather case fitted with a small metal suspension ring at the top, indicating it was intended for wall display rather than typical case storage. A strong and engaging example of early child portraiture, with an especially effective and natural sibling pose.

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