Bright-faced Grandmother

Sixth Plate Daguerreotype | Such an honest, open country face, with the serenity that is often bestowed by great age. The richly tinted red chair upholstery is the perfect visual surround. Fine detail on granny's white lace day cap and shimmering black silk wrap. I should note her face is rather more subtle and alive than the digital picture would suggest (when the tonal range is broad, running from bright whites to deep blacks, the daguerreotype is often far better than the digital reproduction).

Condition: Excellent deep red tinting. Normal margin tarnish. Minor spots. Case much worn, missing some of the leatherette paper on the edges. With repaired hinge. New archival seals.

Key points: Close-up view of a grandmother with direct, homespun charm. A study in red, black, and white. Circa 1849. American sixth plate daguerreotype measuring 3 1/4 inches x 2 3/4 inches (8.2 cm x 7.0 cm).Image #0D7-240; $250.