American Historical Ephemera & Photography

Quarter plate daguerreotype portrait of a pensive looking gentleman, almost certainly a lawyer, holding what appears to be a bundle of folios, possibly deeds to be recorded at the clerk of courts office (strong clarity and contrast, small spot near right edge, light tarnish to perimeter). Housed in full case (some surface wear, loss to top edge of back cover).

[With:] Half plate daguerreotype portrait of a young husband, wife, and child sitting uncomfortably against a simple backdrop, their cheeks lightly tinted pink. The man holds what appears to be a level suggesting that he may be a carpenter (very good clarity and contrast, few spots on plate, tarnish to perimeter). Housed in full case (fully separated at hinge, with surface wear and some damage).