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The image is a prime example of mid-19th-century portraiture. During this era, daguerreotypes were the first commercially successful photographic process. Because the images were monochromatic and often appeared somewhat "ghostly" due to long exposure times, artists frequently applied delicate hand-tinting to the cheeks, clothing, and jewelry of the subjects to provide a more lifelike and "healthy" appearance. Visual Analysis

inches), it was a common size for family keepsakes and was usually protected behind glass in a decorative leather or thermoplastic case. Archival Significance 5423290_050.jpg

The "hand-colored" aspect is notable for its subtlety, using fine pigments to add pink hues to the girl's face and possibly gold accents to jewelry or details on her dress. Format: As a quarter-plate daguerreotype (roughly The image is a prime example of mid-19th-century portraiture

The intricate lace, fabric textures, and styling of children's clothing in the 1850s. Visual Analysis inches), it was a common size

At The Met, this specific file number is associated with the museum’s digital preservation efforts. It serves as a scholarly resource for studying: