D06-169. MELLOW MATRON. An older woman wearing a dress with wonderful mid-tones was daguerreotyped in front of a gray drop while resting one arm on a similarly shaded tablecloth. Her white cap and the black chair back really extend the tonality range and create wonderful contrast. Although the subject has a small town appearance, I think that her maker really knew his craft. That chair back balances the weight of the table and he asked her to sit forward, which naturally created depth. The sixth plate was resealed by the previous owner. There are a couple white specks on the lower left side. Faint pigments remain on the woman's cheeks and hands. An absolutely magnificent red velvet pad embossed horizontally features an eagle above swirling filigree. The complete leather case has a common floral theme. $160