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| D01-86. THE WOMAN WAS A LADY . . . And she knew exactly what she desired in her archivally sealed sixth plate. What was running through the operator's mind when this gorgeous person walked into his large studio to first inquire and then hire him for a commission on silver? Once she explained the purpose of her pose, either the owner or an assistant placed a tiny chair on the patterned carpet. It was completely hidden by the subject's voluminous dress that was neatly gathered across the bottom. During the camera preparations the woman calmly folded her hands in her lap. At the moment of truth she smiled and relaxed into a dreamlike reverie! How much more beautiful could a Victorian female have been in front of a lens? A broad skylight above her position permitted glorious light to spill evenly into the room. Could the maker have been aware of the dent in his background above the woman's dress as he concentrated on his patron? Her easy attitude and sumptuous attractiveness would have lulled most anyone into a tongue-tied stupor! While she was extremely calm, those bits of hair caressing her forehead probably betrayed her real more outgoing temperament to an astute observer. After the brief session was completed and gold chloride brought the silver surface to a splendid finish, pigments were delicately added. The final result is a stunning realistic vision of a person who doubtlessly had many admirers! Actually, when her worn leather case is opened, the next owner will gaze upon the young beauty, waiting for her to utter the first words. Original oxidation and a few minor mold spiders dot the remarkable silvered surface! $2,800 |
