Portrait of a Man c. 1850

"Portrait of a Man" is a daguerreotype by John Plumbe Jr., a prominent 19th-century American photographer. Created around 1850, this intimate portrait captures the essence of a young African American man in a formal setting. The subject's attire, including a plaid vest, a crisp white shirt, and a patterned cravat, reflects the sartorial standards of the era, showcasing the sitter's status and respectability. The daguerreotype's small size, typical of the medium, highlights its intimate and personal nature. The image, framed within a decorative mat and case, provides a glimpse into the world of mid-19th century portraiture and the evolving visual representation of Black Americans in the United States.