Details
Description
Rare Antique Hand-Colored Photograph of Port Blakely, WA Mill (c. 1900) by Wilhelm Hester
Offered for sale is a remarkable …
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Rare Antique Hand-Colored Photograph of Port Blakely, WA Mill (c. 1900) by Wilhelm Hester
Offered for sale is a remarkable piece of Pacific Northwest maritime history: an original hand-colored photograph of the world-renowned Port Blakely lumber mill. This evocative image captures a busy industrial scene at the turn of the 20th century, a defining moment in Washington State's history. The photograph is attributed to the celebrated maritime photographer Wilhelm Hester (1870-1947), whose work is featured in numerous museum collections.
Historical Significance & Artistry
Iconic Subject: The scene captures several large sailing vessels—including the Mary E. Foster and Iverna—docked at the mill's expansive wharves, loading lumber for global trade.
Unique Medium: This is not a modern reproduction. It is an authentic, vintage gelatin silver print that has been meticulously hand-colored to bring the scene to life with naturalistic greens in the water and sky.
Specifications & Condition
Photographer: Attributed to Wilhelm Hester.
Approximate Date: Circa 1900–1901.
Mat Measures: 14" tall x 17".
Art Measures: 10.5" x 13.5".
Condition Notes: The piece shows signs of age consistent with a 120+ year-old historical artifact. There are wear to the corners of the original cardboard mat and visible stains on the print surface, particularly in the lower water area (please refer to photos for details). These imperfections are typical for historical photographs and do not detract from the powerful historical narrative of the image.
This authentic Wilhelm Hester hand-colored print is a foundational piece of Pacific Northwest history and an important find for maritime collectors or historical enthusiasts. Despite its age-appropriate imperfections, its historical significance and rarity make it a compelling and valuable acquisition.
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- Dimensions
- 17ʺW × 0.25ʺD × 14ʺH
- Styles
- Industrial
- Art Subjects
- Seascape
- Frame Type
- Unframed
- Period
- 1900 - 1909
- Country of Origin
- United States
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Silver Gelatin
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Green
- Condition Notes
- The piece shows signs of age consistent with a 120+ year-old historical artifact. There are wear to the corners of … moreThe piece shows signs of age consistent with a 120+ year-old historical artifact. There are wear to the corners of the original cardboard mat and visible stains on the print surface, particularly in the lower water area (please refer to photos for details). These imperfections are typical for historical photographs and do not detract from the powerful historical narrative of the image. less
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Returns & Cancellations
Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
Cancellation Policy - Prior to shipping or local pickup, buyers may cancel an order for up to 48 hours, unless otherwise specified.