Untitled (Portrait of Seated Man Wearing Straw Hat) 1862

"Untitled (Portrait of Seated Man Wearing Straw Hat)" is a daguerreotype by the Dunshee & Co. Artists, dating back to 1862. This small, intimate portrait captures a seated man, likely a young farmer or laborer, dressed in simple workwear and wearing a straw hat. The image is framed in a gold-gilded case, a popular style of the time, highlighting the subject and adding to the piece's historical significance. This daguerreotype, now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, offers a glimpse into the lives of ordinary individuals during the mid-19th century, showcasing the artistry of early photography in capturing the details of daily life.