D06-131. KIDS ON A COUCH. A rather bland beginning to a miraculous (because although the lad on the left moved during the exposure he is still strongly seen) sixth sized miniature. His older brother, and maybe by not more than a few minutes, handled his sibling's motion with detached brilliance. Not only does that tiny hand on his chin suggest "I'm thinking about what I should do AFTER we are out of this situation" but please also notice the child's other hand casually placed in support of his arm. Comical might describe the twosome who both wore heavy knitted woolen socks, pantalettes and intricately sewn dresses. The daguerreian tucked the tots into the corner of his ornately patterned stuffed sofa and prayed that they wouldn't leap off while the lens was uncapped!!! I'm not certain if the white wall on the right was actually the side of the studio or a piece of cloth to reflect his main light source that entered the room from overhead. The plate was polished with such skill that there are no horizontal buff marks visible. Which brings me to a conclusion that I can't explain. There ARE vertical lines barely seen that resemble buff strokes. How in the trade could a maker prepare his surface so brilliantly, reproduce the tykes with monumental holographic depth and not use the proper technique? Two large dents, created the day mother brought her offspring to the studio circa 1848, because the vise was tightened with too much tension, are visible in the black background. I will completely understand if the next potential owner decides to return the piece after an inspection. There is lovely patina around the subjects with milky film on the top. A new archival seal completes the package. Their worn case seems original. I should mention the tinting on their flesh tones when the dag is admired at a steep angle. $850