Portrait of a Mother and Child c. 1850

This daguerreotype, "Portrait of a Mother and Child" by Luther Holman Hale, captures a tender moment between a mother and her infant child. The image is a classic example of 19th-century portraiture, with the subjects posed formally and the focus on their faces and expressions. The intricate details of the mother's dress and the child's clothing are rendered with remarkable clarity, showcasing the artistry of early photographic techniques. The oval format, a popular choice for portraits during this period, further enhances the intimate and timeless quality of the work. The piece exemplifies the growing popularity of photography in capturing family moments and preserving personal memories during the mid-19th century.