Summer A. Smith

sixth-plate daguerreotype, hand-tinted in gilt, cased, the photographer's credit stamp on the velvet lining, 1859-1860

Acquired from Ken Appollo, Rhinecliff

Stanley B. Burns, Mirror Mirror: The Burns Collection Daguerreotypes (New York: The Burns Archive Press, 2012), pl. 9

The Encyclopedia of Collectibles: Photographs to Quilts (Alexandria, 1979), p. 18

The handsome subject of this occupational study and his horseshoe, anvil, and hammer are rendered with fine clarity. The sitter's pocket-watch is highlighted in gilt. There is uneven tarnish along the contours of the mat, notably at the upper left corner. When this plate is examined closely, there are several rust-colored accretions, primarily in the lower quadrant. The case is slightly worn, scratched at the edges, and the cover is detached.
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.

According to Craig's Daguerreian Registry (Vol. 3, p. 531), Summer A. Smith was active as a daguerreotypist at 416 North Second Street in Philadelphia from 1859 to 1860. He is listed as boarding at a Black Horse Tavern, of which there were several.  One nearby to his Philadelphia studio was in Flourtown and was the first stop on the Philadelphia-to-Bethlehem stagecoach line.