Traveling Attire

Sixth Plate Daguerreotype | This dashing woolen cape no doubt provided much-desired warmth during brisk, windy travels — for example when riding in an open wagon or acting as a coachman. The wide-brimmed hat and sportive tie suggest the American West — perhaps the Gold Rush era prosperity of California. A very unusual outfit for a gentleman appearing in an 1850s daguerreotype; the first we have ever seen with this traveling cloak.

Condition: Overall quality better than the scan, which does not capture the subtle aspects or sharpness of his handsome face. Some tarnish at the periphery, which is nothing more than the normal patina of age in a daguerreotype created 150 years ago.

Key points: Rare outfit with wool cape, Western hat. Circa 1853. Sixth Plate American Daguerreotype (measuring 3 1/4 inches x 2 3/4 inches; 8.2 cm x 7.0 cm). Fine Condition. Image #D-29; price on request.