Antique Mathew Brady Abraham Lincoln Large Photographic Portrait

Item Details

An antique photographic print of Abraham Lincoln. The source portrait was taken by Matthew Brady on January 8, 1864; this silver gelatin print is attributed to J. Gurney & Son. Gurney and son were partners from 1860-1874, but appraisal notes suggest that the format is more consistent with that of the 1890s or early 1900s.

According to the provenance written on back, it was purchased at ‘an old Junk store’ in Buffalo, NY before 1920 by Henry Reeves, who showed it to Meserve, then acquired after 1938 by William deForest Winchell (1895-1961) of Buffalo; thence by descent to the current owner, who hung it in his office while an aide to Congressman Charles E. Bennett from 1972-1974.

An appraisal notes that it is a sepia-toned print on printed Gurney mount; minor damp staining, scuffing in blank area of image, early retouching to eyes, nose and lips; extensive provenance notes on verso dated 1920-74, circa late 1800’s.

Condition

Yellowed in keeping with age. Blown glass and wood frame.

Dimensions

Item #

16LOU110-001