An examination and explanation of clues to establish the
date of 19th century photographs.
This Weeks Photograph - May 14, 2012
Photo Facts
Photo Type
Ambrotype
Plate Size
1/6 Plate
Plate Size (In.)
2.75" x 3.125"
Case Size
3.25" x 4"
Preserver
Thin, flexible
Mat
Medium Stamped
Plate Material
Single clear plate
About the Case Studies
Each week a new case study of a picture typical of old family photographs will be published.
These examples can help genealogists learn the skills that will help date their own photos.
An estimated date (if one was not available) will be given with a +/- number of years it could be. Dating old photos is a science that provides answers usually within 2 - 6 years of when the photo was taken.
This wonderful ambrotype was well-composed, created by an obvious expert, and has withstood the years very well.
The mat covering with an oval cutout is typical of the mid-1850s through the later years. Around 1859, the mats became very thin and highly decorative. The Feb 27, 2012 case study illustrates the later mats very well.
The preserver, the small frame which wrapped around the mat and glass plate, has reinforced corners (thicker and wider) which kept the preserver from breaking during installation. They were fairly fragile. These reinforced corners did not appear until about 1858, usually seen 1859 onward.
Est. Date: 1859
+- 1 Yr
Mat and preserver date to 1858/1859
Clothes are late 1850s, including the small collar.
The preserver, the frame around the glass and mat, is 1860 era, but the case and mat don't match the time frame.
The lovely lady with the wide 'pagoda' sleeves is in fashion for the late 1850s. Her lace scarf, tied in the back is very typical of the late 1850s.
Ambrotypes, when produced by an expert, were beautiful images. Many times, the image was tinted to bring out the cheeks and lip; and jewelry would be gilt.
This was quite common for ambrotypes as well as daguerreotypes and some tintypes.
You can become an expert at analyzing photographs.
Much of the information used to analyze this photograph is covered in the Identification section of this web site. In addition, comparison to similar yet dated photographs in the Gallery section will help confirm the estimates. Even greater detail, organized for this type of research is available in PhotoTree.com's books. Learn More.