This lot includes two antique photographs that appear to show opposite sides of the interior of an office. The photo with the fireplace (top) has artwork on the wall, to the right of the mantle, that was created for Issue 57 of Shoppells Modern Houses, published in 1898 by the Co-operative Building Plan Association in New York, NY.
For reference, I've uploaded the cover of Issue 57. When you
compare it with the artwork on the wall, you'll note the artwork in the
photo doesn't include the masthead beneath the top edge. The artwork in
the photo is also considerably larger than the publication itself. This
leads me to believe the artwork on display in the office may be an original
artist's drawing.
The photos show a multitude of plans/drawings stored in cabinets and on shelves. The image (bottom) that includes a wall clock includes what appears to be a file room at the far end with a safe to the left of the entrance. The text on the safe identifies it as a "Herring's Patent" brand. Both the safe and the file room are filled with plans and documents. The office also includes a number of desks, a small press (next to the fireplace), large roll of paper, stacked books/records.
Both photos have a photographer's stamp on the back: William Johnston, 29 Fulton Avenue, Jersey City. According to newspaper ads from the time, the Co-operative Building Plan Association's offices were at 108 Fulton Street in NYC. I've attached a copy of one of their ads for reference.
I don't know the connection between this office and the Co-operative Building Plan Association, aside from the artwork on the wall and the plans/drawings.
Each photo measures 8 1/8" x 6 1/4" and is mounted to a 14" x 11" card. The photos are in nice condition. The cards have some wear, discoloration, and damage. Please see the images provided, as they're part of the description.