Charles Reid (1837–1929)
A pair of albumen photographs of a horse in a stableyard, one with mount, circa 1900
In their original oak frames with gilt gesso moulded with stylised foliate ornament
Signed on the card mounts C. REID, WISHAW
28in x 32.1/2in. (71 x 82.5 cm) overall
Charles Reid (1837–1929) was a pioneer of commercial photography in Scotland. He successfully managed to photograph livestock and wildlife despite the need at the time for long exposures.
Born in Turrif Aberdeenshire, the son of William Reid, a general labourer, and Isabella Findlater Reid. Charles began work at the tender age of ten herding cattle for a local farmer. An apprenticeship to a cobbler followed and then work as a postboy. The gift of a camera ignited a passion and career occupied the rest of his life. The local trade directory indicates that Reid had a studio in Turriff until around 1876, after which he settled in Wishaw and set up a studio in Shand Street.
He travelled widely throughout the United Kingdom photographing race horses and the breeding stock of the landed gentry. He held positions as the official photographer of the Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland, and the Royal Agricultural Society of England
Condition: Slightly faded and yellowed. The backs of the frames lacking the paper coverings, but with original nailed wood panels.
Enquiries: nmcelhatton1@gmail.com
