Untitled [man with defective hand] c. 1850

This anonymous 19th-century daguerreotype, “Untitled [man with defective hand],” is a striking portrait of a man, likely taken in a studio setting. The man, dressed formally in a suit and tie, is seated and stares directly at the viewer with a serious expression. The intricate details of the sitter’s clothing, the ornate frame, and the textured background emphasize the artistry of this early photographic technique. The portrait’s title suggests a fascinating story behind the sitter, adding a layer of intrigue to this compelling piece of photographic history.