John G. Showell (Montana, 1873–1940) was an early 20th‑century photographer active in Montana, known for capturing images of the state’s landscapes, people, and cultural scenes. His work reflects the early photographic traditions of the American West, documenting both natural beauty and local communities.
Career and Style
Showell’s photographs often depict Montana’s rural and frontier settings, including portraits and landscape views. His subjects range from individuals and families to scenes of everyday life, such as the “Montana Indians (Probably Flathead)” series from 1900–1910, which are vintage silver gelatin prints. His style aligns with the early photographic practices of the period, using silver gelatin processes to produce detailed, tonal images.
Notable Works
Two of his known works are recorded in auction and gallery records:
Bitter Root (1910) — achieved a record price for Showell in 2024 at Ader, selling for $418 USD MutualArt.
Legacy
While Showell’s career spanned the early decades of photography in Montana, his works are now valued for their historical and cultural significance. They provide a visual record of early 20th‑century Montana life, offering insight into the state’s geography, people, and evolving photographic techniques.
Where to Find His Work
Showell’s photographs have appeared in auction records and are held in private collections. They are also referenced in historical and art market databases such as MutualArt and Valley Fine Art MutualArt+2.
In summary, J.G. Showell was a Montana–based photographer whose images contribute to the visual history of the state, preserving both its landscapes and its people from the early 1900s.