1870s photo HELP needed...

[D. Bergin]

Originally Posted by Runscott

A few things:

• Given that it's got an 'x' over the guy at front center, you might find an i.d. on the back when you de-frame it.
• There really is no standard size on albumen images this old - they were printed, they were cut, they were matted. This one might be closer to what Dave considers 'standard', once the matt is removed. As long as it has the original matting, image size isn't an issue.
• No Spalding
• I never consider a photo like this 1870's unless there is real good reason to do so...even though it might be. Seeing it out of the frame, in person, will give you a better idea.

When I said "standard", it was because I was concerned it was a slightly trimmed down modern 16x20 print, not that it didn't fit some standard 1870's-80's era size.

It would be unusual for any albumen print to measure that close to a modern size, especially when you get to the larger sizes (8x10, 8 1/2" x 11", 11x17, 16x20), they are usually more erratic then that.

With the pictures given, I don't think you can tell enything given the frame it's in, but I'd be suspicious of anybody who offered me a 16x20 / 20x16 albumen photo.

[bwild22]

Guys I greatly greatly appreciate all this info. Thanks very much!

[Runscott]

Originally Posted by D. Bergin

When I said "standard", it was because I was concerned it was a slightly trimmed down modern 16x20 print, not that it didn't fit some standard 1870's-80's era size.

It would be unusual for any albumen print to measure that close to a modern size, especially when you get to the larger sizes (8x10, 8 1/2" x 11", 11x17, 16x20), they are usually more erratic then that.

With the pictures given, I don't think you can tell enything given the frame it's in, but I'd be suspicious of anybody who offered me a 16x20 / 20x16 albumen photo.

I own a few. Nothing odd about the size of this one.

[Directly]

1) I would ask the seller to remove the photo for a look & see
A) if they say no, ask why?--I would think if its right the seller would will be cooperative to your request
B) Advise you are more than willing to pay to have the picture
professional backed at any frame shop of his choice.

2) If he says No--I would pass or bid the amount I was comfortable with paying, but if you really like it who cares.
A refund in writing is OK, but could be worth only the paper its written on.

3) If he allows, look for a Photographers name or location of the Studio. Although many photos of this size or not marked this could help.

4) Pay strict attention to the overall condition, especially the back, the mounting card board edges, the photo's edges & surface, etc. If all the prints medium looks too good to perfect condition, I would question its age.

5) I was offered several old Cabinet Cards where the old original photo had either been scrapped off or covered over with new reproduction Indian Chief's photo's. The photo's white edge's & cut & especially the photographs grainy surface gave it away for me.

Another example: I once inspected several Cabinet card's with Annie Oakley image. In this case the complete Cabinet Card was reproduced. --The dead giveaway was inspecting the extreme edge of the photograph's condition which was snow white with a near perfect straight cut. Also overall the Cabinet Card was in perfect condition??

7) I should add we have all seen paper items that were artificially aged.

8) Only my opinion of a few things I would check if I wanted the photo. Good Luck!