Created by
Unidentified
Subject of
Unidentified Man or Men
Unidentified Child or Children
Date
1855-1860
Medium
silver nitrate on glass photographic plates with metal and textile materials
Dimensions
H x W: 2 1/2 x 2 in. (6.4 x 5.1 cm)
Description
This 1/9 plate cased ambrotype depicts a white baby being held for the camera by a black man whose shoulder and hands are visible, but is otherwise unseen. The baby's cheeks have been tinted pink. The photograph is in a decorative copper-colored metal oval frame with a floral, star, and scroll motif and is held in a brown case with red textile lining. There are decorative impressions on the front and back of the case, which fastens with a small metal hook and eye closure along one edge.
Classification
Slavery and Freedom Objects
Photographs and Still Images
Type
ambrotypes
portraits
Topic
Children
Photography
Slavery
Credit Line
Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
Object number
2008.9.3
Restrictions & Rights
Public domain
Proper usage is the responsibility of the user.
GUID
http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd571258ee7-f117-4ef4-a276-78e51e3858e0

Cataloging is an ongoing process and we may update this record as we conduct additional research and review. If you have more information about this object, please contact us at NMAAHCDigiTeam@si.edu

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