Sixth Plate

THEIR FACES . . . Were filled with contemplation as they posed for their archivally taped sixth plate portrait. The young mother sat comfortably on a small wooden chair and her daughter stood beside her, holding a small book. The maker cleverly suggested that she place her hand on mom’s shoulder to link them together. Daguerreotypists used inventive dodges early on to create pleasing visual results. The only thing lacking would be two broad smiles. Each woman directed their eyes towards the camera and neither one of them displayed much self-assurance. Although there is flowing patina that touches the subjects, enough light tinting remains that precluded a quick recleaning of the brilliant reflective surface. Almost invisible brown specks might be seen if you use an 8x loupe. The females fill the frame nicely and are kept in a common leather case that is apart.