Sixth-plate collodion ambrotype on glass, housed beneath an elaborate multi-lobed Rococo stamped gilt brass mat and matching rope-twist preserver, enclosed in a hinged miniature leatherette or pressed paper case lined with rich plum velvet. Ca. 1856 - 1860. Plate measures approx. 2 3/4 x 3 1/4 in.; case measures approx. 3 1/4 x 3 3/4 in.

A tour de force of antebellum occupational photography, capturing a handsome young man proudly displaying a functioning tabletop-sized steam calliope.

The operator leans casually against a wooden work table, his left arm resting over the keybed with quiet confidence. His ensemble is distinctly tradesman-like: a wide-brimmed soft slouch hat tilted back, an unbuttoned duster, a checked vest, a wide white neckerchief tied in an exaggerated bow, and trousers tucked casually over sturdy boots.

Mounted securely to the table before him is an intricately machined, miniature steam apparatus. At the center stands an upright cylindrical brass boiler fitted with manifold piping, valves, and mechanical linkages. To the left sits a curved arched frame housing a flywheel, connected to the boiler assembly. Spanning the front of the device directly beneath the operator’s hand is a chromatic keyboard designed to actuate steam whistle valves in musical sequence.

Patented by Joshua C. Stoddard of Worcester, Massachusetts, in October 1855, the steam calliope produced piercing, melodic notes by forcing pressurized steam through a bank of locomotive-style whistles. Early calliopes were massive, temperamental steam engines; inventors constructed compact working tabletop prototypes to demonstrate their product to interested parties, like fairs and circuses. That is almost certainly the type of device we see here. 

Ambrotypes depicting musical instruments of any kind are desirable, but an authentic 1850s plate documenting the dawn of the steam-powered hallmark of American circus lore is unprecedented on the open market.

[Occupational Photography, Steam Calliope, Calliope, Steam Organ, Joshua C. Stoddard, Circus History, Riverboat, Steamboat, Mechanical Invention, Patent Model, Machinist, Ambrotype, Sixth Plate, Cased Image, 1850s Photography, Industrial Americana]

Very good to fine condition. The plate retains exceptional sharpness and tonal range, making it easy to examine the intricate calliope with the naked eye.