lot 110

Lot 110

Hilarious large warm-toned mounted photograph (10” x 12” with the mount) identified in the negative as “Republican Ratification, Nov., 12th, 1896.” We haven’t found an event on that day in Chambersburg, PA where this was photographed, but surely it was celebrating the victory of William McKinley who was elected the 25th President on November 3, 1896. The comical and ridiculous nature of these men could surely represent our modern-day politics! Of course, the large elephant in the room dominates the scene.
The elephant was first associated with the Republican Party in 1874 when Thomas Nast used an elephant labeled “the Republican vote” in his 1874 cartoon to mock a voter panic over rumored plans by President Ulysses Grant to seek a third term. Another modern-day concern! Nast continued using this reference and by 1880 the public adopted this symbol as mainstream. We have a feeling these men might have been celebrating since the election, hence the ridiculous dress with fake noses. We assume they were supposed to mimic the elephant trunk but they remind us more of the fake pig nose. We love the crudely written musical notes attached to their barrel drums and we wish we could decipher the symbols and text on their hats. The patriotic drape and flag on the elephant have been lightly tinted red and his riding blanket branded G.O.P.
This fantastic historical photo is in excellent minus condition with great tones and contrast. There is a hint of a spot in the sky on the top right and the border of the image on the right side is a little lighter in tones. There is some light staining on the perimeter of the heavy mount. It was captured by J. Will Barbour, Photographer, Chambersburg, PA. It is rare that we see political themed portraits from this period and especially any that tie directly into modern politics. Don’t miss your opportunity to own this exciting piece with midterms on the way!

Opening bid – $200