Unidentified photographer
n.d.
Cultured French Woman with Piano

Daguerreotype
6 3/4 x 5 3/4 ins
 
Larry Gottheim, Be-hold, Inc
Courtesy of Larry Gottheim - Be-Hold (50 / 20)
 
French daguerreotype in a deep oval mat with reverse painted glass cover, in a hanging frame that has only a few nicks. The plate has been re-sealed, with the glass cleaned, but the blue paper backing is retained, on which "Septembre 1851" is written in early pen.
 
She has a splendid dress, and her ring and earrings are gilded. She is positioned between a piano and a table on which a book rests on its edge. Books on tables are standard daguerreian props, but here it seems to be a deliberate indication of her literary cultivation to complement the musical skills suggested by the piano.
 
This is a warm-toned plate that goes well with the chocolate brown of the mat and the darker brown of the frame.
 
LL/22323