Portrait of a Woman c. 1849

This daguerreotype, created by African American artist Augustus Washington around 1849, showcases a seated woman in a formal pose. The image captures the details of her clothing, including a lace collar and a richly patterned dress, reflecting the fashion trends of the mid-19th century. Washington's work, while rare, exemplifies the contributions of Black artists to early photography and provides a glimpse into the lives of individuals during that era.