Victorian Ambrotype outlet of a Portrait of an Infant in Thermoplastic Case Circa 1850s

The ambrotype process must have seemed almost miraculous when it was first introduced, the camera obscura image emerging as a shimmering negative on the glass and then springing to life if by magic when a dark ground was placed behind the plate. And a unique magic it was, a positive process, the captured image is singular, with no negative to reprint from. The image depicted in the photo is quite compelling. The infant seems to be gazing in astonishment at the photographer. His wide eyes and slightly open mouth seemingly caught in the moment as he is deciding whether to laugh in delight or wail in fear. The curled fingers of his chubby hands seem to beg a finger to grasp. The touch of rose added to his cheeks brings a hint of life and depth to the image. The photo itself is beautifully detailed, crisp and sharp as one expects from this process, though the over exposure has left the details of the child's gown washed out.

The union case is just as beautiful as the image. The plastic material made of wood fiber and shellac captured every detail of the mold, as though it were carved out of wood. The case is decorated with a typically ornate medallion with a central acorn motif, the folate scrollwork that surrounds the medallion giving a lacy effect that adds movement to the element. The medallion is framed with simple scroll outlet work and rather baroque corner elements that mimic an ornate picture frame. This decorative surround is echoed inside the case with the highly detailed, almost neoclassical gilt brass frame that decorates the edge of the ambrotype.

Approximate Measurements:

Height: 3”

Width: 2 5/8” (closed)

Depth: 3/4”

The photo itself is a ninth size plate.

Condition: The image is in good condition. The glass over the plate has some slight flaws in it that are not readily apparent without magnification. The gilt frame has some areas of corrosion along the edge and slight wear to the gilding where it wasn't protected behind the glass. The case is in good condition with only a small amount of wear. The velvet lining is somewhat faded and a bit threadbare. The catch of the case still shuts securely, and the hinges still operate smoothly without wobble. The case still retains the manufacturer's paper label behind the plate.