Unknown Microphotograph Maker "Fancy Borders"

by Brian Stevenson
last updated December, 2024

These microphotograph slides are occasionally seen in England. They do not have any identifying initials, so for want of a better identifier I refer to this microscopic photographer as "Fancy Borders". Descriptions on the labels may be in plain or italic font, suggesting that there may have been more than one maker or, perhaps, an evolution of labeling over time. Any information on this maker’s / these makers' identity, or other examples of their work, will be greatly appreciated.

The "English Gamekeeper" image is from an engraving that was produced in 1858 by Frederick Stacpoole (1813-1907), which was in turn based on an 1855 painting by Richard Andsell (1815-1885). Producers of microphotographs frequently used engravings as image sources, since engravings have strong contrasts that transfer readily to black-and-white photography, whereas color paintings often have too much subtlety.

Acknowledgement

Thank you to Richard Courtiour for sharing images.