Untitled 1839 - 1899

This anonymous daguerreotype, dating from 1839 to 1899, is a poignant example of early photographic portraiture. The subject, a man in a dark jacket and hat, is depicted in a seated pose with a contemplative expression. The daguerreotype process, invented in 1839, captured intricate details and rendered the sitter with a timeless, almost ethereal quality. This piece is an important historical artifact, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people during the mid-19th century. The Art Institute of Chicago houses this small yet significant work, measuring just 8.3 x 7 cm.