: A bidding war erupted at Alderfer's auction of Fine Art and
Decorative Accessories this past Wednesday, December 8, as an
unassuming selection of daguerreotypes was offered.
The four images, by William Mason, depicting Philadelphia outdoor
scenes from the Chestnut Street area and estimated between
$4/6,000 and $9/11,000 each, created quite a stir.
"We knew there was going to be some excitement," stated
Alderfer's. The extent of that excitement, however, proved to be
a surprise to nearly everyone.
The first lot, a view of Chestnut Street and Second Street sold
at ten times the low estimate for $46,000. A view of Chestnut
Street with houses and storefronts went for $48,875. The North
side of Chestnut Street, depicting shops, realized $43,125, and
another view of Chestnut Street shops sold at $46,000. The
accumulative total for the lots was $184,000.
Prices include the 15 percent buyer's premium.
A complete review of the auction will appear in a future issue.
-JMW Fletcher
