Pennell, Morse or a fellow student while in New York
1840 (ca)
Portrait of Albert Sands Southworth (1811-1894), about 28 years old [Not certain]
Daguerreotype, 1/6 plateWestchester Fine Art Auctioneers & AppraisersThe Portrait Sale, 18 October 2015, Lot 44
Early 6th plate daguerreotype of Albert Sands Southworth (1811-1894), about 28 years old, housed in a full case with an elaborate metal plate casing. It is our opinion that this early portrait of Southworth had originally been taken by Pennell, Morse or a fellow student while in New York circa 1840. This is an early copy plate attributed to Southworth, circa 1842-1843, taken from the original plate. This daguerreotype had been completely sealed with paper and a copper sheet backing. No doubt that Southworth wished to save this image for prosterity. It is illustrated as plate 687 in Young America; the Daguerreotypes of Soutworth and Hawes, together with another sixth plate daguerreotype that may be a copy plate as well. The original was most likely a ninth plate. However more research is needed. Provenance: Feigenbaum Sale, Sotheby's NY, 4/27/99, lot #83. We have provided a retouched image of the portrait, minus the blemishes and the black makeup under his eyes, for easier comparative identification. The sitter appears to have it applied under his cheek bones as well. Most likely the smudges on his chin and forehead are the makeup too. The makeup (possibly charcoal or grease paint) was probably used to create greater contrast and definition in the face despite the long exposure time and the bright natural light. Please note that it is the retouched image that is featured as the lead photo.
The identity of the sitter is not certain. (Michael Lehr, 31 December 2017).
LL/61914
