| Unidentified photographer Cultured French Woman with Piano n.d. Daguerreotype 6 3/4 x 5 3/4 ins Larry Gottheim, Be-hold, Inc Courtesy of Larry Gottheim - Be-Hold (50 / 20) LL/22322 French daguerreotype in a deep oval mat with reverse painted glass cover, in a hanging frame that has only a few nicks. The plate has been re-sealed, with the glass cleaned, but the blue paper backing is retained, on which "Septembre 1851" is written in early pen.
She has a splendid dress, and her ring and earrings are gilded. She is positioned between a piano and a table on which a book rests on its edge. Books on tables are standard daguerreian props, but here it seems to be a deliberate indication of her literary cultivation to complement the musical skills suggested by the piano.
This is a warm-toned plate that goes well with the chocolate brown of the mat and the darker brown of the frame.
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