Photography

 

 

A generation ago the collecting market for photography was dominated by demand for the small number of surviving images from the pioneering years of the mid 19th century. Mediums such as the daguerreotype, the ambrotype or albumen, and salt prints (among the first commercially successful photographic processes) were the collecting zeitgeist. However, in recent decades the market has broadened substantially to embrace the more artistic works of 20th century photographers while also rewarding the masters of genres such as fashion photography and photojournalism. There exists too a quite different market for 19th century albums of topographical images and photo-illustrated books - particularly those taken in the Middle and the Far East and India that appeal to an international audience.  

Sworders have sold examples of all of these works - including the 1992 dry transfer print of Genko Leaves by Irving Penn (American 1917-2009) for £61,000 in 2015. 

Results & Highlights

 

Department Contact

Our specialists hold regular valuation days. Please contact us for more information, or complete the online form to enquire about the valuation of your items. 

John Black

 

John Black ASFAV
Director

T: 01279 817778
E: johnblack@sworder.co.uk

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News & Articles

The Glass Sale | A Medium of Light, Form and Infinite Expression

We are thrilled to launch The Glass Sale - a brand-new addition to our auction calendar! The inaugural sale will take place on Tuesday 28 October and will become a biannual fixture in our calendar going forward.

20 June 2025

Honouring the Arts

We are proud to announce our collaboration with Britten Pears Arts, a pioneering music, arts, and heritage charity based on the Suffolk Coast. Custodians of two iconic and historic sites – Snape Maltings and The Red House – Britten Pears Arts has been a cultural cornerstone since 1948. 

19 June 2025

Eric Ravilious | A Master of Wedgwood Ceramics

An impressive single-owner collection of Eric Ravilious ceramics will star as one of the standout sections in our upcoming 8 July Design sale.

19 June 2025