(Darwin, Charles) | More than 100 items of Darwin ephemera, testifying to the ubiquity of his image

(Darwin, Charles)

A large collection of photographs, stamps, medals, and printed ephemera, 19th-20th centuries

7 carte-de-visite photographs (four of Darwin, three composite images including Darwin), ca. late 19th century, including one by Elliott & Fry (165 x 107 mm) and another by the London Stereoscopic & Photographic Company (104 x 61 mm); lightly faded, wear commensurate with age. — One large albumen print (295 x 234 mm) of seated portrait of Darwin, mounted on paper, laid down inside a hinged mat.  — One photographic slide (approx. 82 x 101 mm) of a seated portrait of Darwin. — 3 medals: a bronze medal created for the 50th anniversary of the publication of the Darwin-Wallace pamphlet, a Russian medal struck for the centennial of the publication of On the Origin of Species, and a modern commemorative coin. — 52 postcards, ca. late 19th century-1984 (though most 20th century), many featuring portraits of Darwin, others with photographs of his home or illustrations of related material; some stamped and addressed, most blank. — 58 international postage stamps, ca. 1935-1984 (though most modern), printed in a profusion of designs, featuring portraits of Darwin, his specimens, and other related material, many produced for the centenary of his death. — 59 printed advertisements, cigarette cards, trade cards, and cigar bands featuring Darwin's portrait or related material. [And]: Numerous other photographic and printed ephemera related to Darwin.

A substantial collection documenting the ubiquity of Darwin's image in popular and scientific culture, from the distribution of carte-de-visite portraits during his lifetime, to the issuance of medals, stamps, and advertisements commemorating his influence in the 20th century.

Various sizes, various conditions. Sold as a group lot, not subject to return.