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 353

Tintype, Post-Mortem Memorial of a Young Child

Estimate: $50 - $100
Starting Bid
$25

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
An unidentified young child is depicted in post-mortem repose in this CDV-sized tintype, most likely produced in the latter half of the nineteenth century. The format and funerary staging are consistent with the widespread American and European practice of memorial photography, which reached its height between the 1850s and 1890s. No photographer's imprint is visible, and the maker remains unmarked.

The child lies on a white pillow and draped burial surface, dressed in a light-colored garment with a ruffled or gathered collar. A floral arrangement featuring a prominent white rose and smaller blossoms is placed in the child's dark hair. Behind the figure, a Christian cross stands prominently at center, flanked on either side by tall candlesticks with tapered candles, composing a deliberate and carefully arranged devotional scene.

Post-mortem photography of infants and children served as the only lasting likeness many families would possess, and the presence of the cross and candles reflects the formal religious mourning customs of the period. The floral crown further signals innocence and spiritual passage, conventions widely observed in Victorian memorial portraiture.

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