American author and philosopher (1803–1882), whose central role in the Transcendentalist movement earned him a place among the most influential figures in 19th-century literature and thought. Very rare original 2.5 x 4 carte-de-visite photo by J. E. Tilton of Boston, showing Emerson seated at a table with a book on his lap, signed in the lower border in black ink, “R. W. Emerson.” Some scattered light edge wear and dings and some mild surface marks, otherwise fine condition. Emerson is quite uncommon in any format, and particularly elusive in signed photos. RR Auction COA.
