Barris

sixth-plate daguerreotype, with extensive hand coloring, sealed, cased, inscribed ‘Portrait of Rufus Grider, Bethlehem Pa., taken May 24^th, 1850.  By Barris.’ in an unidentified hand on the case interior, 1850

This impressive sixth-plate daguerreotype is remarkable for its sensitive rendering of its subject and for the exquisite and intricate hand coloring on the vase of flowers, sketchbook, and tablecloth. The plate is in excellent condition. The original lateral buff lines are visible throughout. The brown paper seal appears to be original. The letterpress type on the case's paper lining reads: 'Myron Shew Dealer in Daguerreotype Materials No. Chestnut Street, Philadelphia' The case is separated at the hinge.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This daguerreotype shows the American artist Rufus A. Grider (1817-1900).  Born into the Moravian community in Lititz, Pennsylvania, Grider spent most of his life in Pennsylvania – in Lititz, and then Bethlehem, where this daguerreotype was taken.  Largely self-taught, he sketched and painted throughout his life, and the Moravian Archive in Bethlehem houses a collection of Grider’s Pennsylvania work, which includes watercolor landscapes and town scenes.  Grider was also interested in horticulture and produced sumptuous floral studies in watercolor and gouache.  An album of Grider’s floral studies and other work was featured in a 2004 episode of the television program, Antiques Roadshow.  The subject of Grider’s drawing in the present daguerreotype is clearly botanical, and the drawing in his sketch book, as well as the floral arrangement on the table, are meticulously hand-colored.

In 1883, Grider moved to Canajoharie, New York, where he taught art and drew and painted extensively.  Much of his New York work focused on historical artifacts, including carved powder horns and Native American clothing.  The New York State Library, Albany, holds an extensive collection of this work.