An exciting discovery has been made in the Perth and Kinross Archive at the AK Bell Library of a ledger kept by renowned Perth photographer Magnus Jackson.
Magnus Jackson and his three children were photographers in Perth from the late 1850s to 1897 at a time when photography was gaining in popularity and becoming more accessible as new techniques were being developed. The ledger, covering the period from 1891 to 1897, reveals a rich source of new information about Jackson’s practice detailing the services provided to customers and the prices that they were charged.
Amidst the local clientele was the famous artist John Everett Millais who regularly procured their services in the copying and framing of his paintings. It is understood he occasionally employed photographs as source material to aid his painting. The ledger also adds important factual information to the c3000 Magnus Jackson glass plate negatives housed in the Perth Museum and Art Gallery.
This exciting discovery was made by Roben Antoniewicz, who often undertakes research in the Perth and Kinross Archive at the AK Bell Library. He came across the ledger whilst pursuing further research into the life of Magnus Jackson. The ledger was found sleeping among the files of Arthur Young, Maclellan Moores, & Co, chartered accountants, Perth, 1819 -1917.
Paul Adair Collections Officer at Perth Museum & Art Gallery says the find gives new insights into the work carried out by the studio of Magnus Jackson.
‘The ledger covers the last few years prior to the tragic suicide of Magnus Jackson Junior; the last family member to operate from their premises at 62 Princes Street, Perth. We are fortunate to have a good account of Magnus Jackson senior’s photographic approach but this exciting find gives a new insight into the operation of the business. With further research it should be possible to cross-reference with some of the actual negatives held in the Museum, giving information on the date, client and services provided.’
He added, ‘It’s wonderful that Roben Antoniewicz’s perseverance has paid off resulting in such a significant find. I‘m often curious to know if other records or even Jackson’s original photographic equipment are out there somewhere. If anyone out there has further information on Magnus Jackson I would be delighted to hear from them.’
Ishbel MacKinnon, Senior Officer at Perth and Kinross Archives said of the discovery, “We are thrilled that Roben has made this important discovery in the Archive. The Archive holds over 2 million records relating to all aspects of Perth & Kinross’ history. It is very exciting when researchers discover previously unknown records such as this, which reveal new insights and provide a deeper understanding of our local history.”