YES SIR!

First place was awarded to the gentleman chomping his cigar for the neatest trimmed beard, thickest chest hair AND the nicest woven straw hat at the Manhattan County fair circa 1847. Darn, where did that blue ribbon disappear? Honestly, the man is a prize without the accolades! He had perfect posture as he was seated in a soft rounded chair resting his hands on his white trousers. That long cloth ribbon could have held his watch, a signet or even reading glasses. Not only was the daguerreotypist, James Weston (his name and location, 192 Broadway in New York City are stamped along the bottom of the brilliant brass mat) an exceptionally talented craftsman, his eye to detail was extraordinary. Notice how the bottom of his subject?s white shirt was neatly folded after he sat down. The light crept underneath his hat at the perfect height so as not to create a shadow. The lens was focused on the man?s calm hazel toned eyes while he watched his maker manipulate the camera; resulting in a masterwork. Extended contrast and tonality is equal to the fabulous holographic depth. Delicate tinting was added to his freckled face. There are some mat scrapes in the thick oxidation and a couple teeny mold spiders on the surface of the archivally sealed sixth plate. Weston is an operator who consistently worked well above the curve of dag standards, however no one ever inquires about specifically purchasing one of his plates. You should ALL covet this one! The gentleman is held in a leather case that has a rare delicate roses motif. The hinge is separated and a plain red silk pad is inside.