Untitled (Portrait of a Girl) 1855

"Untitled (Portrait of a Girl)" is an 1855 daguerreotype by an anonymous artist, currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago. The small-scale, intimate portrait captures a young girl in a simple dress, her gaze directed towards the viewer. The use of a daguerreotype process gives the image a unique, detailed, and almost lifelike quality. The girl's expression and posture suggest a quiet solemnity, highlighting the common practice of portraiture during the 19th century, which sought to preserve the likeness and memory of individuals. The simple composition and delicate detail of the daguerreotype capture a moment in time, offering a glimpse into the lives and experiences of the past.