Sixth-plate daguerreotype plate under an oval sand-finish gilt brass mat with scrolling foliate inner rim and chased preserver, housed in a split miniature pressed-leather case lined with embossed crimson velvet. Ca. 1850 - 1855. Plate measures approx. 2 3/4 x 3 1/4 in.; case measures approx. 3 1/4 x 3 3/4 in.

An artful outdoor portrait capturing a young girl posed in an authentic natural landscape. The photographer staged the sitting in the field, utilizing the rough-barked trunk and drooping foliage of a living tree as an organic backdrop. Leaning casually against the trunk, the young girl gazes forward with a calm, wide-eyed expression, dressed in a short-sleeved plaid day frock with a white collar and necktie. Cradled securely under her right arm is her small black pet dog, held still against her side throughout the outdoor exposure.

True outdoor landscape daguerreotypes are among the most elusive categories in daguerreian collecting. This is an outstanding example. 

[Daguerreotype, Sixth Plate, Outdoor Portrait, Tree Backdrop, Landscape Photography, Child and Dog, Pet Dog, Canine, Plaid Dress, Victorian Childhood, Split Case, Cased Image, 1850s Photography]

.

Very good condition. The plate displays strong contrast and good mid-tone gradation, with light peripheral tarnish along the inner mat oval and subtle background dusting.