Anonymous, American.
 
An extraordinary sixth-plate daguerreotype of an African American woman in a tender pose with her young daughter, who gazes at the photographer.
 
While obviously an image depicting the bond between a mother and child, the image is a powerful period rejoinder to slaveholders who believed Africans incapable of emotion. Purchased by the consignor for a mere $1.00 about 50 years ago at a Marv Smith auction in Hanover Center, NY about 40 miles south of Buffalo. Housed in a leather case with repaired hinge; traces of original seals, recently partially resealed.