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History of Science Museum

Photograph (Salted Paper Print, Framed) of the Botanic Garden and Magdalen College Tower, Oxford, by W. H. Fox Talbot, July 30, 1842

Inventory Number 37304


Acknowledgement: © History of Science Museum, University of Oxford, inv.37304

Item type
Object
Provenance
Lent by Magdalen College, Oxford. From the Daubeny Laboratory, originally part of the Daubeny Collection of chemical apparatus.
Primary inscriptions
Manuscript inscription on label on backing board: 'Calotyped at Oxford | July 30, 1842 | H. F. Talbot' [in Talbot's hand].
Physical material
Paper
Wood
Glass
Dimensions
Height: 188mm Width: 225mm
Inventory No
37304

Description

Calotype (salted paper print from a calotype negative) showing part of the buildings and glasshouses of the Botanic Garden, Oxford, with Magdalen College tower beyond, and parts of the garden in the foreground. Framed and glazed, with label on backing board inscribed in Talbot's hand, indicating that it was framed by him or under his supervision. The photograph is sepia, of even strength and tone all over, with darker brown border, and several small stains. The frame is wood with maple veneer on front, ebony inset, two original nails holding the backing board, which is warped; the edges of the frame are painted yellow. A hole in the top edge presumably indicates the original hanging hook; the screws and wire are not original. Companion to 31601.

For fuller descriptive and historical commentary see narratives.