Sixth-plate studio portrait daguerreotype. N.p., ca. early-to-mid 1850s. Housed in a full leatherette case.

An exceptional occupational or avocational portrait capturing a balding gentleman seated half-length, mid-performance with his instrument. Facing the camera with an intense, furrowed brow and direct gaze, the musician holds a dark wood transverse flute to his lips, his fingers poised over the tone holes and keys. The instrument features distinctive white ferrule rings (likely ivory or nickel silver) and keywork, clearly delineated in sharp relief.

He is dressed in formal gentleman's attire: a dark tailored frock coat, dark cravat tied in a broad bow, and a crisp white shirt. His left forearm rests upon an adjacent studio table draped in a boldly patterned damask cloth, upon which sits a small leather-bound book, possibly a volume of music or hymns.

Occupational and avocational daguerreotypes featuring musical instruments, particularly wind instruments captured with the musician actively engaged in play, are highly sought-after and uncommon survivors of the early photographic era.

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Very good condition. The daguerreotype exhibits excellent focus, strong contrast, and rich tones. The plate displays small spots beneath the glass that are non-distracting to the presentation, along with faint halo tarnish along the upper margin.