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Lot #282
Thomas Edison Typed Letter Signed to The Maharajah: "I am sending my representative, Mr. James Ricalton, to your wonderful country to obtain a series of moving pictures of interesting subjects"

Edison sends his photographer to India, soliciting help from the Maharajah: "I have thought it may be within the power of your Excellency to assist my photographer in gaining access to subjects he may find desirable. These pictures are now being used widely over the world as an educational factor"

Ends On 4/9

Now At:  $294 (5 bids)

Next Bid:  $324

Estimate: $1500+

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Server Time: 3/15/2025 07:16:04 PM EDT
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Description

Edison sends his photographer to India, soliciting help from the Maharajah: "I have thought it may be within the power of your Excellency to assist my photographer in gaining access to subjects he may find desirable. These pictures are now being used widely over the world as an educational factor"

TLS signed “Thomas A. Edison,” one page, 8.5 x 11, From the Laboratory of Thomas A. Edison letterhead, July 1, 1911. Letter to "His Excellency The Maharajah," to be carried by famed traveler and photographer James Ricalton. In full: "I am sending my representative, Mr. James Ricalton, to your wonderful country to obtain a series of moving pictures of interesting subjects. I have thought it may be within the power of your Excellency to assist my photographer in gaining access to subjects he may find desirable. These pictures are now being used widely over the world as an educational factor and any assistance which your Excellency may extend to my representative will be highly valued by me personally, as well as by the public at large." In fine condition. Accompanied by the original transmittal envelope from the "Laboratory of Thomas A. Edison, Orange, N.J."

James Ricalton (1844–1929) was an American teacher, traveler, and photographer known for his work with Thomas Edison. He traveled extensively to capture images for Edison’s stereoscopic photography and film projects, circumnavigating the world seven times. Ricalton also played a key role in sourcing materials, such as bamboo from China, for Edison’s light bulb filament experiments. Their collaboration contributed to advancements in early photography and electric lighting technology, as well as the widespread dissemination of exotic images from around the world.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts Featuring Civil War and Abraham Lincoln
  • Dates: March 14, 2025 - April 09, 2025





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