Lot 68

Lot 68

Regal boudoir cabinet card showing the “Smoking Car”, of the “New York and Chicago, Limited” Pennsylvania Railroad. The added bonus of this image is you can see the photographer’s camera on his tripod reflected in the mirror at the front of the car on left side! We previously sold a sleeper car from this series and by the same photographer in our auction a year ago. These cars were quite elaborate, as seen, with lovely fixtures, seating and reading material in the bookcase, along with a built-in desk for writing or work. A water pitcher is also seen just below the camera’s reflection. 
There is a small badge identifying the photographer as Gubelman, Jersey City, NJ on the bottom right corner that reads, Gubelman, 82, Jersey City, NJ. This would be Theodore Gubelman. According to Rutgers’ Library,, Gubelman was an ambitious German immigrant who established his gallery in New Jersey during the increased market for portraits during the Civil War. “His career, which included several studios in Tennessee during the conflict, was characterized by both typical and unique experiences at a time when there was high public demand for photographers to provide multiple copies of inexpensive portraits.” The link contains a wealth of information on the photographer’s career. 
The image has decent tones and contrast for the interior of a railway car with some wear as seen. There is some chipping to the darker mount, and a small break in the top area that doesn’t go through the mount. A great unique piece especially with the camera’s reflection!