Anonymous American Photographer

sixth-plate daguerreotype, sealed, cased, circa 1850

This daguerreotype is impressive for, among other things, the natural ease of the subject within a very deliberate composition. While the hatter stands straight and proud, there is no rigidity in his pose. The daguerreotypist has carefully chosen to show not just a single hat to be symbolic of the man's profession, but has instead created a cascade of hats on the table to the left in addition to the hat the man holds in his hand and that which he wears on his head. Few daguerreotypes are so natural and unposed looking, although there are a number in the Belcher collection that fall into this category. This daguerreotype is in fine condition. The spots visible in the catalogue illustration are almost exclusively on the underside of the cover glass. The customary tarnish at the edge of the image is not intrusive. The intact paper-tape seal is clearly old and likely original. The leather case is all but separated at the hinge. Few daguerreotypes are so natural and unposed looking, although there are a number in the David Belcher Collection that fall into this category.
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NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This daguerreotype is impressive for, among other things, the natural ease of the subject within a very deliberate composition.  While the hatter stands straight and proud, there is no rigidity in his pose. The daguerreotypist has carefully chosen to show not just a single hat to be symbolic of the man's profession, but has instead created a cascade of hats on the table to the left in addition to the hat the man holds in his hand and that which he wears on his head.