AN extraordinary collection of photographs depicting Charles Darwin could reach £100,000 when it goes up for grabs next week.
The exceptional Victorian album of carte de visite cards of the world famous naturalist will be purchased by one lucky bidder at Colchester auctioneers Reeman Dansie.
The series of images show the man who helped shape how humans see the world around them as he has rarely been seen before.
Darwin’s profound interest in photography is well documented, having used pictures in his research and in exchanges with colleagues and friends.
It was also an important tool for Darwin to cement his position in an international scientific network, as well as establishing him as a celebrity.
The sale will also feature an historic family photograph album believed to have been compiled by the naturalist’s wife, Emma.
This is predicted to reach at least £5,000.
Auctioneer James Grinter said: “This is a really important collection which comes straight from the family.
“It is of huge significance and very rare to the market. You can actually see Darwin getting older as the pictures go on.”
Mr Grinter added: “It is very exciting and lovely to handle such important things.
“It is something we do on a fairly frequent basis so we are very lucky.”
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