Michael Lehr Antiques
Live Auction

Spring Photographic History Auction

Sat, May 3, 2025 01:00PM EDT
Lot 188

Exceptional Full Plate Tintype of Bearded Violinist

Estimate: $400 - $600

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Remarkable full plate tintype (6.5 x 8.5 inches) featuring a distinguisnhed, white-bearded elderly gentleman seated in three-quarter pose, caught mid-performance with his violin tucked under his chin and bow in hand. The clarity and depth of this image are striking—his intense expression, detailed wool coat, and the warm wood grain of the violin all rendered with beautiful sharpness and tonal range.

His refined posture and confident grip on the instrument suggest not only technical familiarity, but a lifetime of musical dedication. A rare and highly expressive occupational or artistic portrait—perhaps a traveling performer or respected regional musician—captured in a moment of focused engagement. No photographer's imprint, as typical with tintypes, but this image is professionally composed and lit, showing the hand of an experienced studio operator.

Full plate tintypes are scarce, especially in this condition and with such powerful subject matter. The plate has only minor edge wear and slight mat abrasions around the corners, with the central subject in excellent preservation. No bends or major flaws noted.

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