Lot 633: Platt D. Babbitt daguerreotype, 1853, Niagara

Platt D. Babbitt daguerreotype, 1853, Niagara Falls at Point View, whole plate image with 12 figures in foreground, original eglomise mat and walnut frame inscribed in brown ink on verso "Taken at Niagara Falls July 20th 1853, Messrs. J.W. Patton, J.A. Patton, W.A. Patton, T.W. Patton, Francis L. Patton, Miss Charlotte Kerr, Mrs. A. J. [sic] Patton, Col. Charles Phillips and Mrs. Charles Phillips, Col. John Hugh Murphey & Col. William Mc___, Walton's Party 12 persons", 6 x 8 in. (sight), frame 14-1/2 x 17 in. Original paper seal around plate with separations, image slightly faded, peripheral finger marks and discoloration, minor soiling beneath glass cover, minor scuffs and wear to frame, portion of original backboard present, inscription faded. Provenance: James W. Patton (1803-1861) of Asheville, North Carolina, purchased photograph from the artist. Photograph descended to consignor (Mary Parker), great-granddaughter of James W. Patton. For similar example, visit the Getty Museum's web site.