A generation ago the collecting market for photography was dominated by demand for the small number of surviving images from the pioneering years of the mid 19th century. Mediums such as the daguerreotype, the ambrotype or albumen, and salt prints (among the first commercially successful photographic processes) were the collecting zeitgeist. However, in recent decades the market has broadened substantially to embrace the more artistic works of 20th century photographers while also rewarding the masters of genres such as fashion photography and photojournalism. There exists too a quite different market for 19th century albums of topographical images and photo-illustrated books - particularly those taken in the Middle and the Far East and India that appeal to an international audience.
Sworders have sold examples of all of these works - including the 1992 dry transfer print of Genko Leaves by Irving Penn (American 1917-2009) for £61,000 in 2015.
Our specialists hold regular valuation days. Please contact us for more information, or complete the online form to enquire about the valuation of your items.
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Sworders feel privileged to be entrusted to disperse this select group of items from the deeply cherished personal collection of the late Hermann Baer (1898-1977), including antique Italian maiolica and German faience.
8 May 2024
The Homes & Interiors Department is delighted to offer items from one of London’s most exclusive areas, Knightsbridge, in their 14 May sale.
7 May 2024
Following on from the hugely successful sale of the contents of the late Maurice ‘Dick’ Turpin’s Barons Keep residence earlier this year at Sworders, we are excited to unveil further of his treasures in our forthcoming Fine Jewellery sale on Tuesday 21 May.
2 May 2024
