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| D05-136. FILLED HIS FRAME. "Willard Market St. AB(ove) 16th Philad."is boldly imprinted in a deep burgundy velvet pad opposite this matron from the city of Brotherly Love. John Craig notes that a W. Willard worked at 120 West Market St. in 1854-55. He is mistaken about the impression inside the case. Mine definitely is what I have listed. I wonder where Willard learned the art? His sixth plate has remarkable qualities! The large lady rested one arm on a table and dangled her hand over the edge, which made a remarkable beginning point for studying her likeness. His brilliant use of light and mellow shadows fully defines her features in a gentle manner. The extended mid tones and vivid white front of her blouse and cuffs is finely contrasted. I can feel the woman's presence in MY studio after all these years. As I write, the original seals haven't been touched. I must make a scan to decide if I should offer her as she was presented 150 years ago, albeit without the filthy glass. For a purist, since it is so rare to actually have a splendid piece with the intact first seals, here she is. The book style leather case has pebbled covers and a wide fancy brass latch. There are teeny brown dots on the subject's hands. Rich oxidation hugs the oval mat. Everything else is underneath the glass. $225 (If you would like a new archival seal, please add $40 and let me know at the time of your purchase). |
