Appraisily Check my item

Auction sale reference

Carleton E. Watkins (American, 1829-1916)

Sold for $2,750 at Fine Estate Inc. on Sep 21, 2025.

Carleton E. Watkins (American, 1829-1916) auction lot image

Have one like this?

Upload a photo for a free check of what yours may be worth.

Lot description

Carleton E. Watkins (American, 1829-1916) Yosemite, Three Brothers, circa 1865 Mammoth-plate albumen print, signed in pencil (lower right). 15 1/2in. x 21in (40cm. x 54cm) Framed: 28in. x38in (72cm. x 84cm) Condition: Small tears on right edge. Watkins was a Naturalist whose detailed and awe inspiring representations of nature are generally regarded as the finest examples of 19th century American landscape photography. It is impressive to consider the enormous difficulties involved in making his photographs. Watkins traversed rocky trails with a wagon hauling his massive camera and glass plates. Then he coated the plates with a light sensitive material in a dark tent and made the exposure within a few moments, all without getting dust on the plates. The exposure often took one hour and was usually done in the morning when there was little wind

Do not price your object from one auction record.

A signed appraisal checks whether this sale is truly comparable to your item before you sell, insure, donate, or divide an estate.

Get an expert appraisal