Ambrotype of a “French-Canadian Trapper”. Believed to be a copy of the centre part of a larger plate.
Toronto. It appears to me that many image collectors enjoy their finds briefly, then offer them at a bit higher price to the next collector. Some, like the owner of this image, and our own editor of the day, Bob Lansdale, enjoy researching an image and discovering the rich history behind the photograph.
Bob speaks about this particular image in his article, “The French-Canadian Trapper” which begins, “When an early image comes on the market that is deemed to be a French-Canadian trapper, it certainly will pique the interest of Canadian collectors. Such was the case when this 1/9th plate ambrotype was offered by John and Jelena McWilliams of One Nation Historical Antiques Auction in California. PHSC member, Howard Tanenbaum of Toronto outbid others to bring the image to Canada adding to his considerable collection.
“The image is believed by McWilliam to be a copy of a much larger daguerreotype (possibly a 1/6th plate) according to his experienced judgement.
“The central portion of the photograph is sharp while beyond that the image becomes softer, as was the pattern of early portrait lenses.” …
Members can read all of Bob’s investigative article in the issue 24-2 pdf file on the free members-only DVD/thumb drive. Joining is easy – see Membership above or to the right. Email Lilianne at member@phsc.ca if you have any questions.
And be sure to attend our 2025 events. You may not see this particular Ambrotype offered but you will see many items to augment your collection. Next up is our annual Trunk Sale on July 13th – rain or shine.
