Sixth Plate

“MARSTON’S”! That name was boldly impressed in the center of the fancy brass mat. Joseph H. worked in the city of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, circa 1850 to 1859. This sixth plate example that has been resealed would have been one of his earliest efforts. There is broad dark patina inside the unusual mat opening and many flecks and specks on the silver. Those horizontal lines across the lovely young lady’s torso were original buff strokes. There is something about the framing of her pretty face inside the shape of that bonnet that has captivated by fancy. Was it her sparkling eyes or of those perfectly formed lips? Maybe the gal’s “superior” attitude that exudes confidence even today when I opened her leather case that was repaired with a cloth hinge. Marston achieved fine contrast and he realistically tinted her flesh tones. The piece also has nice reflected depth.