Lot 198: Robert MacPherson (1811-1872) Selected architectural studies of Rome 10

Robert MacPherson (1811-1872)
Selected architectural studies of Rome, 1855-186510 albumen prints, each with plate notation in pencil and 'MacPherson Rome' blindstamp in the margin. (10)each approximately 10 5/8 x 15 5/8in (27 x 39.7cm)mount 18 3/8 x 24 5/8in (47.2 x 62.5cm)

A successful painter, journalist, and art dealer in Scotland until attracted by photography, Robert MacPherson moved to Rome in 1840 for health reasons and there became a commercial photographer, opening a shop from which he sold prints. However, MacPherson had high aspirations for his photographs, listing himself as "Artist Photographer" in a studio guide of 1858. For a time he enjoyed commercial success with the sale of these large-format, romantic views of Rome's ancient heritage.