Portrait of a Woman c. 1860

"Portrait of a Woman" is an anonymous daguerreotype, a photographic process invented in the 19th century, dating back to around 1860. The image captures a woman in a seated pose, dressed in a dark gown with a white lace collar and bonnet. The intricate gold frame and the delicate detail of the woman's clothing suggest the portrait was likely commissioned by a well-to-do individual. Daguerreotypes were a popular form of portraiture in the 19th century, and this piece showcases the artistry and technical skill of an anonymous photographer. The image's intimate scale, capturing the subtle nuances of the sitter's expression and dress, speaks to the personal nature of daguerreotypes and their enduring power to connect us to the past.