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| D12-1. BATHED BY SUNSHINE! An unknown daguerreian with consummate skills welcomed this family of four to his makeshift studio circa 1847. Not only did the man have the ability to take a horizontal quarter plate daguerreotype with an excellent lens, he created a large enough space to seat his subjects with room to spare. These folks were near a large opening either in a barn or a substantial building and the bright light streamed onto them all. That dark drop was hung far enough behind them to soak up all the excess brilliance. Consequently the silver mirror is so reflective that explosive is the only thought that comes to mind when the nearly perfect intact leather case is opened. As I study the remarkable composition I wonder if that was actually a single wooden bench or four small separate chairs set upon a rough-hewn floor that held father, mother and the boys! Each person had an intense stare into the lens, heightened by the direct illumination and a command from their maker, after he told the foursome to "cross your hands and stay still"! The lady actually managed a pleasant expression while her men remained impassive to the event. At one time the octagonal brass mat was misaligned and mat marks were made. Otherwise, this rural masterwork made by an operator who excelled in the process, is in great shape. $3,950 |
