Auction Item Details
Lot 44
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Lot Number: 44
Description: Museum quality Christy Mathewson large format cabinet photograph by Carl Horner (PSA/DNA "Type I"). Important sepia toned studio portrait showing Christy Mathewson in uniform at the height of his storied career with the New York Giants. Overall composition is exceptional with crystal clear clarity making appear as though Matty is standing face to face with the viewer. The 6.5"x9" photograph remains on its' original mount which has "Carl J. Horner" mark at lower right. Long ago trimmed at the edges (currently measuring 10"x12" overall) to fit in the period frame in which it was proudly displayed. Horner cabinets are among the most highly sought after forms of all early baseball photography and while it has long been believed that he would have taken such an image of Mathewson, this stands as the first example which we can cite as having been offered publicly in decades. In a further nod to its' standing as one of the most prized pieces within the genre, it is worthy of note that nearly every other Horner portrait extant is of far smaller size (typically measuring just over 5"x7"). It is not unreasonable to suggest that this was more than likely created as a presentational piece from Horner to Mathewson himself. Very fine overall condition with the slightest tear to the photo (center, top edge) and mild toning to the trimmed mount which has some paper loss on an upper back corner. With regard to importance of subject and photographer combined with unusually large size and the overall quality of the work, the offered ranks among the most significant early baseball photographs ever offered. Includes full LOA from PSA/DNA ("Type I") and Mathewson Collection certificate of provenance: Overall EX, see descriptionEstimated Price Range: ($50,000-$100,000)