Glass Negatives of Chinese Figures Attributed to C.M. Bell 

Lot of 16 collodion glass negatives, each half-plate exposures measuring approx. 5 x 7 in., almost certainly produced by the Charles M. Bell studio in Washington, D.C. This is indicated by the numbering system used on the paper labels that are affixed to all but one of the negatives. This numbering system corresponds with the numbering system utilized in the Bell collection of negatives and ledger, which is housed in the Library of Congress. It is possible that these portraits were taken during the first Chinese governmental delegation to the United States, which was held in Washington, D.C. in July of 1868. Anson Burlingame, the American Minister to China, served as head of the delegation. 

The following figures are identified on the accompanying paper labels, with the image number also included: 64773 - Mr. Zring-Kring-Mon (?); 28685 - Chinese Minister; 61809 - Mad. Mutsu (?); 60639 1/2 Madam Mutsu; 53661 - Lu Lou; (?)2610 (with loss to paper label) - Tsin Tung; 64732 - Mr. Ye; 50087 - T.K. Lee; 53661 - Lu Ton; 28572 (no name included); Lee Len (2), both beautiful portraits of a mother posed with her child, in traditional dress; 50457 - Wm. H. Lin (?); 36727 - Mme Lalino (?); 53661 - Lee Lou.

Tsin Tung negative with small crack that doesn't impact portrait.