Michael Lehr Antiques
Live Auction

Spring Photographic History Auction

Sat, May 3, 2025 01:00PM EDT
  2025-05-03 13:00:00 2025-05-03 13:00:00 America/New_York Michael Lehr Michael Lehr : Spring Photographic History Auction https://auction.michaellehrantiques.com/auctions/michael-lehr-antiques/spring-photographic-history-auction-19217
Raw, rare, and unforgettable—this is 19th- and early 20th-century photography at its best. Vernacular portraits, Native American warriors, African American resilience, Mormon pioneers, Western frontier families, and stark post-mortem scenes. Daguerreotypes, ambrotypes, tintypes, CDVs, and cabinet cards that capture real life without filters. Every image tells a story of survival, pride, and change. A museum-worthy collection for those who know real American history when they see it.
Michael Lehr Antiques info@michaellehrantiques.com
Lot 297

Framed Tintype of Baptist Johnson, Oneida Indian Preacher

Estimate: $200 - $300
Starting Bid
$100

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Striking CDV-sized tintype of Baptist Johnson, identified as an Oneida Indian preacher, housed in its original ornate pressed-paper wall frame, complete with a period hanging ribbon and handwritten identification label affixed to the reverse. Johnson stands in a formal studio setting, clad in a dark frock coat and vest, resting one hand on a draped chair. His confident, upright posture and composed expression lend a dignified air to the portrait.

The photograph retains rich contrast and clarity, and the frame—though showing minor wear and edge losses typical of age—displays elaborate floral scrollwork and retains strong surface detail and color. A remarkable survival of both subject and context, offering a rare and personal window into 19th-century Native American religious and social history.

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