Dykes Alexander and Wife
SOLD November 2004 |
A pair of early daguerreotypes, anonymous English, portraits of the photographer Richard Dykes Alexander and his wife, housed in deep morocco-leather cases and Wharton-style brass enclosures. Together with two other daguerreotypes showing members of Dykes Alexander's circle.
These two ninth plates seem quite early and do not appear to have been opened, retaining their original cover glass as well as the attendant imperfections such as dust. The elaborate presentation indicates a professional studio, although other daguerreotypes from the same group were produced by Dykes Alexander himself. (Provenance: Christie's South Kensington, 4/30/1997 and 5/8/1998).
Both are housed in early Wharton-style brass enclosures:
The two additional daguerreotypes included in lot appear to be later and show associates of Dykes Alexander wearing Quaker style clothing. Both are housed in full cases, the view of woman has a loose label in case identifying her as "Lydia Brown", no identification is given for the gent:
