Anonymous American Photographer

sixth-plate tintype, in a half-case, circa 1860s-70s

This finely detailed tintype is in generally very good condition. Individual strings on the banjo, the latches on the instrument's case, and the creases in the sitters' well-worn leather boots are easily visible. Faint rose-colored tinting is barely visible in the left sitter's cheeks. Light soiling, small scratches, and a few small deposits are visible when examining the plate closely.
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 surprising tintype shows two young musicians—one white, one African-American—holding their instruments: a likely-homemade fretless five-string banjo, and a simple store-bought fiddle.  Early photographs of interracial musical groups are rare, and this image is a tangible document of the connection between European and African musical cultures, the blending of which created a uniquely American sound.  Neither white American nor African-American music developed in a vacuum; the musical conversation which influenced the development of the blues, bluegrass, jazz, country music, and rock and roll, began in the 19^th century, as this tintype illustrates so eloquently.  It is noteworthy that the white man plays the banjo, an instrument evolved from African gourd instruments brought to this country by slaves, while the African-American man plays the violin, an instrument of European musical traditions.