Attributed to Charles Fontayne (1814-1901) and William Southgate Porter (1822-1889)

quarter-plate daguerreotype, with a modern seal, cased, the photographer's credit and 'No. 30 4th St. Cincinnati' stamped on the velvet lining, circa 1850

Acquired from Walter Burton, Cincinnati

Stanley B. Burns, Mirror Mirror: The Burns Collection Daguerreotypes (New York: The Burns Archive Press, 2012), pl. 89

The five female sitters in this daguerreotype are carefully arranged, each posed with an arm or hand resting on another sitter's shoulder or lap. As is visible in the catalogue illustration, there are horizontal fine scratches overall. Heavy tarnish follows the edges of the brass mat, and there appear to be a few fingerprints in the tarnished borders. A high level of detail remains visible, however, especially in the folds of the voluminous dresses and the design of the guitar. This plate has a somewhat haphazardly applied modern seal along the upper and lower edges. The leather case is worn but very attractive. The cover has a floral design and the reverse has a basket weave pattern. One of the hooks is lacking. The bottom of the case is splitting at the lower left corner.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
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.