Michael Lehr Antiques
Live Auction

June 2026 Vernacular Photo History Auction

Wed, Jun 24, 2026 11:00AM EDT
  2026-06-24 11:00:00 2026-06-24 11:00:00 America/New_York Michael Lehr Michael Lehr : June 2026 Vernacular Photo History Auction https://auction.michaellehrantiques.com/auctions/michael-lehr-antiques/june-2026-vernacular-photo-history-auction-23574
Our June 2026 auction presents a focused and exceptional selection of historical photographs spanning the 1840s through the early twentieth century, with unusual depth in named subjects, rare formats, and documented provenance anchored by strong vernacular material that rewards close looking.
Michael Lehr Antiques info@michaellehrantiques.com
Lot 383

Tintype, Nine Unidentified Group Portraits, Victorian Era

Estimate: $100 - $200
Starting Bid
$50

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$100 $10
$200 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $5,000
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
$50,000 $5,000
Nine tintype photographs, each capturing unidentified groups of figures in period dress, collectively representing a varied cross-section of Victorian-era portrait conventions. The images range from intimate two-subject sittings to gatherings of seven or more individuals, with settings that include painted studio backdrops, outdoor rocky terrain, and open porches. No photographer's imprint is visible on any of the examples, and dating across the group spans approximately the 1870s through the 1890s based on clothing and hairstyle evidence.

Subjects across the nine tintypes wear an array of period accessories including feathered and flower-trimmed hats, parasols held open and folded, fans, walking sticks, and fitted bodices with bustle skirts. One image shows a bearded man in a military-style cap seated beside a young woman outdoors. Another features two women posed together, one holding a small book, both in dark fitted dresses with puffed sleeves.

The group at upper right includes at least six figures arranged across two rows on what appears to be a studio porch setting, with several children visible among the adults. The lower center tintype shows four women surrounded by a painted tropical palm backdrop with ornate studio prop lettering visible at the top edge.

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