Damaged Ambrotype
The case is mostly destroyed; it falls apart upon picking it up. The brass mat and preserver also present special damages. During manufacturing, these items were dipped in a clear shellac or varnish to prevent them from tarnishing. Over the years, where there were thin spots in the coating, or even scratches, the brass underneath began to tarnish. Hence the blotches.
This cannot be fixed easily, as use of a brass cleaner will take off more of the varnish, and now a different set of colors will appear. It is nearly impossible to clean these items to perfection. |
- Mat and Preserver
- Woman's Dress
- General Technology
We frequently showcase beautiful, sometimes museum-quality images in the case study. However, reality gives us many distressed images that are just as important to us as they may be family members.
This poor ambrotype has seen better days, yet we can hope that the reason it is so battered is that it was handled and admired many times by her loved ones.
Besides examining datable clues in this photo, we will take a look at restoration possibilities. Whatever you do, save all pieces of an old image, even if they are in tatters.
When Was This Taken?
The very nature of ambrotype photos puts them somewhere between 1854 (first developed) and the early 1860s. To eliminate the 1860s in this case, the brass mat and preserver (frame around the mat and glass) are pre-1859. In 1859 the mats became very ornate with foil-thin stamped brass mats. This one is much thicker and plain except for some punches around the oval opening.
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Est. Date: 1858
+/- 1 Year
In addition, beginning in 1859, preservers included reinforced corners to prevent breaking. This one does not have the wider, thicker corners.
Clothes and Style
Her clothes, particularly the collar, and her hairstyle are typical of the latter part of the 1850s.
So, by eliminating the 1860s due to mat and preserver clues; and looking at her clothes and style, it is very reasonable to say this was taken in 1858 plus or minus one year. |