Anonymous American Photographer

sixth-plate daguerreotype, in a thermoplastic case, inscribed 'Mrs Ann R. Tilton / a present from Sister Fanny' in pencil inside the right side of the case, 1850s

Acquired from Leon Jacobson

Stanley B. Burns, Mirror Mirror: The Burns Collection Daguerreotypes (New York: The Burns Archive Press, 2012), pl. 67 B

This street scene daguerreotype includes several legible building signs and interesting architectural details. An uneven band of tarnish follows the mat's shape but is most prominent along the right and lower edges. As is visible in the catalogue illustration, hairline scratches and swipe marks are visible overall. There are 2 linear, curved scratches in the upper portion of the image near the top of the buildings.
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.

The location in which this daguerreotype was made has been identified as Montgomery, Alabama.  Contemporary newspaper advertisements in the Daily Alabama Journal in 1851 and 1852 list several businesses whose signs are legible in the present daguerreotype: Halfmann’s Clothing Emporium; Richard Coxe & Co.; and McBryde & Thiess.  Directions to McBryde & Thiess were simply ‘Sign of the large Golden Mortar,’ which is visible atop the pillar at far left.

Sotheby's wishes to thank Sandra Markham, Yale University Library, for her assistance in researching this photograph.