By the late 19th century men, women and children of all ages were anxious to go into the great outdoors from the factories and shops to play, to breathe fresh air, to exercise and to compete. We became a sporting nation.
This lot contains 285 tin type images of everyday folks who pioneered and helped define the American “sporting spirit” that continues unabated to this day. Included are approximately 65 boxing tin types, each showing the men in combative poses, some wearing gloves; approximately 100 boating, swimming and other water sport tin types (mostly posed studio group shots); approximately 30 tennis tin types and approximately 65 other tin types featuring horse racing, cricket, golf, lacrosse, bicycling and more. Each is a window in time and many have enhanced historical significance. For example, of particular note is a tin type that is of a horse racing jockey. Among the earliest such images known, he is shown clothed in his full silks and riding boots and it survives in superior condition.
The average size is approximately 2 1/2” by 3 1/2” with six being somewhat larger. Thirteen of the tin types are displayed in leather-like encasements with brass framed matting. The average condition is excellent. Most of the tin types were shot indoors or in studios but many show their subjects in the outdoors as well. There are examples of every conceivable combination of sportsmen photographed, men and women alone, together or in groups. The condition is generally quite strong, though naturally there is some spotting and scratching on some of the tin types. We strongly encourage bidders to inspect this group during the live exhibition.
Estimate: $12,000-18,000