Posted 2 years ago
scottvez
(554 items)
This large mounted image of a contemplative man holding his cat dates from about 1900- 1910.
The man was able to keep his cat perfectly still during the exposure.
Pets are a common photographic subject matter of this era, but cats are much harder to find. I would estimate that for every 50 dog photographs that I encounter, I might find one cat.
The mount is unmarked, so the location and identity of the photographer and his subject are unknown.
Reproduction of this image in any form is not authorized.
Scott
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Thanks scandinavian.
I think the lack of the story is what makes antique photographs so interesting. While some basic facts can be determined, most is left to the viewers speculation.
Scott
He seems very content.
What is the story?
Cats are like humans, you have to earn their love, trust & respect. For me that's exactly what this image shows. I find this gentleman very attractive! He was obviously a special individual. Thanks for sharing it.
Thanks vintagemad.
My thoughts were a little different:
His wife ran off with the gardner and his smirk tells me, he thinks he got the best of the deal: peace and quiet and no nagging about what he should be doing rather than relaxing in his favorite chair!
Scott
sandinavian, your story is charming and I love your writing style.
Scott, your story, while funny and as always, clever, isn't very charming. :-) Another wonderful photo that evokes curiosity about the real story.
Thanks solver.
Real photo postcards (RPPC) were very popular from about 1905- 1930.
It allowed the subject to get several copies (if desired) quickly and cheaply and then mail them to friends and family.
However, it is my experience that I find more unused (non mailed) rppcs.
The neat thing about rppcs is that you can date them: based off of the stamp cancellation when used or by the stamp box style for those not mailed.
Scott
No problem scandinavian-- glad to help.
Scott
Thanks Designer-- when you have time check out all of my other early photograph related items posted.
Scott
Thanks mtg75. When you have time be sure to take a look at my other early photograph related postings.
Scott
He looks long and lanky like a Basil Faulty type ! And thankyou for the info about rppc . I was wondering myself about that type of photo as the soccer player I posted earlier was a postcard not sent and thinner than normal .
I adore this. But it leaves me w/ so many questions... Is a radiator on a porch/veranda a common element in architecture from that era? What is his lapel pin of? Is his hat scratchy? Is he on vacation at the beach? Oh, it is endless...
Thanks Mcgarrett.
Thanks BeauxPurdy. I think all of the questions and resulting speculation adds to the interest factor in antique photographs.
Scott