Untitled (Portrait of a Standing Man with a Sextant) 1865

This daguerreotype, titled "Untitled (Portrait of a Standing Man with a Sextant)," is a portrait of an anonymous man, likely a surveyor, holding a sextant and tripod, dating back to 1865. The ornate gold frame and the man’s formal attire suggest a commissioned portrait, highlighting the importance of this individual in his time. This small but intricate work showcases the detail and precision of the daguerreotype process, which was popular during the mid-19th century. The man's serious expression and focused gaze further emphasize his profession and the importance of surveying in the rapidly developing American landscape of the time.