Anybody know about Solar Camera's

I am new here and posted about what I thought was a watercolor. I've been told it is a photo from a solar camera. I know nothing about that. Can someone help me figure out what I have? It's a large size 3' x 4'

 

Here is a recent discussion about another solar enlargement, including a link to an article that explains the history and process -

https://www.antiquers.com/threads/antique-french-portrait-paintings.85175/#post-9801435

 

Thank you! Just another question if i may... if it is a solar print, would the paint bleed through the canvass as it did on mine after touch up casting that shadow effect?

 

From your photos it looks like the image is on paper, rather than on canvas. Although I have not personally examined the back of such pictures, I don't think it would be surprising that some paint media would penetrate the paper. Some of the "ghosting" may also be the result of differential reactions with the wood backing.

P.S. it will make it easier for others to see your photos if you go back and "edit" your post and select "full image" rather than "thumbnail".

 

@Budding Collector - I just found that you had already posted in "Art". There may be some delay and confusion with such double postings, but it often takes awhile for new members to get the hang of things.

 

Yes, you are correct. Just getting the hang of this. I did edit to full size now. Thank you so much for your help

 

I can see now that the mount does include canvas.

 

It was actually posted in Introductions, then moved to Art by the Mods, even though I asked for it to be moved to Ephemera (which they probably didn't notice). So a well-traveled little boy.

 

Yes, this little boy has traveled around a bit. But thank you to all who posted. I received information on my art that I would have never have been able to figure out. I think I have something special here and should get it appraised. Are these large works valuable? I've never seen one, but then again I really just got started collecting antique paintings about 6 months ago.

 

Your piece is larger than most I have seen, and nicely "worked up". But there appears to be significant water damage along the bottom edge, which will reduce the potential value. I fear you will be disappointed after spending money on an appraisal. Prices realized for smaller solar enlargements are typically between $50-$200 (based on looking at items sold on ebay).