The Geelong Orphan Asylum. On the occasion of the Presentation of an Address and Bouquet to James Austin, Esq. [1862, or earlier]

[Title from printed label verso]. Stereoscopic albumen print photograph, each image approximately 73 x 73 mm (arch-top format), on original flat mount of buff card, 83 x 173 mm; verso with printed caption label; light foxing to the prints and the mount, otherwise very good condition.

The Geelong Orphan Asylum was founded in 1854. James Austin (1810-1896), wealthy businessman and second Mayor of Geelong, was one of its co-founders and ongoing patrons. The institution became known as the Geelong Protestant Orphanage in 1862, which provides us with a terminus ante quem of 1862 for this rare photograph. A very early date is supported by the style of clothing worn, in particular, by the ladies and gentlemen posed alongside the orphan children.

We have not been able to trace another example of this stereoview in Australian collections.