Anonymous American Photographer

quarter-plate daguerreotype, in a half-case, 1850s

This exceptional occupational quarter-plate shows a frame maker displaying the tools of his trade. Saws, clamps, chisels, a knife, compass, framing square, and joiner are artfully and carefully arranged. The daguerreotype frame hanging in the background is a multiple plate wall frame, this one capable of showcasing more than 12 plates. The central portion of this plate is clean overall. There are several tiny rust- and wine-colored areas primarily at the edge of the plate near the mat, and one pen-point-sized rust-colored area above the sitter's head. There are 2 tiny nicks to the plate: to the right of the sitter's head and in the right portion of the plate. The closest examination reveals fine linear scratches in the central and right portions of the plate. There is some uneven tarnishing at the mat’s periphery, primarily along the left edge. The plate is not sealed.
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