Untitled (Portrait of a Child on a Rocking Horse) 1862

This daguerreotype, created by Alexander Hesler in 1862, captures a young boy seated astride a rocking horse. The image is presented in an oval-shaped frame adorned with ornate gold details, characteristic of the Victorian era. Hesler, a prominent photographer in the mid-19th century, used this popular format to portray the innocence and charm of childhood. The image exemplifies the art of portraiture during this period, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary Americans. "Untitled (Portrait of a Child on a Rocking Horse)" is a small-scale work, yet it beautifully encapsulates the enduring appeal of this traditional children's toy.