Description:

John Brown
New York, NY, ca. 1858-1859
John Brown Harpers Ferry-Era Last Photo
Photograph
An oval sepia-colored salt print photograph of abolitionist John Brown (1800-1859). Ca. 1858-1859. New York, New York. The photograph is mounted on a mat blind-embossed with the photographer's stamp "Lawrence's / Photographs / 381 / Broadway / Cor. White St. / New York" at lower right. Overall toning, with uneven mat burn along the bottom edge, and scattered minor soiling and stains to the mat. Isolated adhesive residue just touching the lower right curve of the photograph. Minor mounting traces verso. Else very good to near fine. The actual photograph measures approximately 7.25" high while the mat is trimmed to an overall size of 8" x 10."

This was the last photograph taken of Brown before his death, and the only known photograph depicting the anti-slavery activist with a beard. The 3/4 length portrait shows a grave and unsmiling Brown stuffing his hands in his pockets.

Brown's original photographer's identity is somewhat in question. There are three likely candidates: Boston photographer James Wallace Black (1825-1896); New York City photographer Martin M. Lawrence (1808-1859); and
Boston photographer John B. Heywood (born 1825). For a more detailed discussion of the photographer candidates and photo session timeline, see Jean Libby, "John Brown Photo Chronology: Catalog of the Exhibition at Harpers Ferry," 2009, p. 71). Regardless of the source, the Lawrence salt print copies proved extremely popular and highly collectible during the mid-nineteenth century. An example of this iconic portrait can be found in the Library of Congress.

In mid-October 1859, John Brown led an abortive raid of the federal arsenal at Harpers Ferry, Virginia (present day West Virginia). Brown was charged with murder, treason, and inciting slave insurrection, and was hanged at Charles Town, West Virginia on December 2, 1859.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 8" x 10"
  • Medium: Photograph

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September 18, 2024 10:00 AM EDT
Wilton, CT, US

University Archives

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