Portrait of a Girl c. 1855

This anonymous daguerreotype, "Portrait of a Girl," c. 1855, captures the solemn gaze of a young girl seated in a chair. The image's small size and the girl's serious expression evoke a sense of intimacy and fragility. The daguerreotype process, popular in the mid-19th century, was known for its detail and sharp focus. The girl's simple dress and the worn appearance of the daguerreotype are characteristic of this era, offering a glimpse into the life of a young child in 19th-century America.