In sepia tones
Transported to yesteryear
Faded memories
I always find it a little strange and slightly sad when I come across old family photos in auction lots. The amount of effort it took to take photographs in the past was phenomenal, especially considering today's instant gratification society. Everybody would dress in their finest clothing and a day's occasion was made out out the event, often including a trip to the studio. Vintage photographs can be considered collectible, and as it is today, subject and general attractiveness determine the value of a photograph. Photographs can also teach us about the society they were taken in, though unfortunately most auction finds come with no context.
Two beautiful portrait photos. The photo of the lady was taken in Paarl, South Africa.
A beautiful faded wedding photograph.
Family photographs that capture a feeling.
This stunning gilt edged family photo album with a leather cover came with a joblot of books. It has quite a few photos missing, but still contains 120 photographs. It is not in the best condition, and the clasp is broken, but I had 2 bids on it immediately after listing it for a starting price of R450 ($31,50).
The 2 pictures above are postcards, rather than photographs, but they so beautifully depict captured moments of early South African society that I had to include them.