Anonymous American Photographer

quarter-plate daguerreotype, half-cased, with a modern seal, circa 1850s

The finely dressed sitter in the daguerreotype offered here is likely a pharmacist or chemist, or possibly a physician. This exquisitely-rendered portrait exhibits a high level of detail, from the velvet on the sitter's collar, to his tie-pin and his elegant pin-stripe trousers; to the cane chair on which he sits and the botanically-patterned tablecloth; to the glass bottles and leather chest in which he houses his wares. Remarkable care has been taken in arranging this tableau. The sitter, who holds a retractable blade, appears to be dividing and mixing medicinal powders from the bottles laid out on the table. One bottle lies on its side, the glass stopper removed. The plate is nearly flawless. An uneven, thin border of tarnish follows the mat's shape, and there is a small scuff along the lower left edge of the mat. This does not detract from the plate's fine appearance. Remnants of the original seal accompany the plate in its case.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The finely dressed sitter in the daguerreotype offered here is likely a pharmacist or chemist, or possibly a physician.  This exquisitely-rendered portrait exhibits a high level of detail, from the velvet on the sitter's collar, to his tie-pin and his elegant pin-stripe trousers; to the cane chair on which he sits and the botanically-patterned tablecloth; to the glass bottles and leather chest in which he houses his wares.  Remarkable care has been taken in arranging this tableau.  The sitter, who holds a retractable blade, appears to be dividing and mixing medicinal powders from the bottles laid out on the table.  One bottle lies on its side, the glass stopper removed.