Civil War–Era | Ambrotype of a Boston Family in Original Leather Case | Circa 1860–1870
Description
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Moins
Historical Context & Origin
Region: England or Continental Europe (France / Low Countries)
Material: Hand-carved solid oak
Period: 16th Century (circa 1500–1600 CE)
Description
This evocative mid-19th century ambrotype features a Boston-area family posed formally in period attire, captured during the Civil War era. Presented in its original hinged leather case, the photograph is framed with a scalloped brass mat and protected by its original glass. The interior displays a richly embossed velvet panel opposite the image — a characteristic hallmark of New England photographic studios between 1855 and 1870.
Ambrotypes of this type were cherished family heirlooms, often created to commemorate lineage, affluence, or major life moments. The clarity of the sitters’ clothing, hairstyles, and posture reflects the disciplined studio portrait tradition of the era.
Features
- Original Civil War–era leather case with floral embossing
- Scalloped brass mat surrounding the photographic plate
- Deep amber velvet lining with scrollwork
- Clear depiction of a multi-member family, including period clothing and hairstyles
- Hinged case with intact clasp
- Boston-area provenance as stated by the consignor
Cultural Significance
Ambrotypes became the dominant photographic method during the 1850s–1860s, replacing daguerreotypes as a more durable and affordable medium. Images such as this served as treasured keepsakes during the Civil War, especially for families separated by conflict. Today, they provide rare documentary insight into clothing, social structure, and domestic life in New England during the mid-19th century.
Condition
Good antique condition with age-expected surface wear. The case shows gentle rubbing at the edges, the clasp remains functional, and the image retains strong contrast with only minor spotting typical of ambrotypes of this age.
Dimensions (Approximate)
11.25 in × 7.25 in
Age
Circa 1500–1600 CE
Learn More
Deepen your understanding of 19th-century photography and the cultural importance of ambrotypes: Ambrotypes & Tintypes – Civil War–Era Photography (Library of Congress)
Explore more Victorian-era artifacts, relics, and historic collectibles: Victorian Artifacts & Historical Relics Collection – Relic And Rarity
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: England or Continental Europe (France / Low Countries)
Material: Hand-carved solid oak
Period: 16th Century (circa 1500–1600 CE)
Description
This evocative mid-19th century ambrotype features a Boston-area family posed formally in period attire, captured during the Civil War era. Presented in its original hinged leather case, the photograph is framed with a scalloped brass mat and protected by its original glass. The interior displays a richly embossed velvet panel opposite the image — a characteristic hallmark of New England photographic studios between 1855 and 1870.
Ambrotypes of this type were cherished family heirlooms, often created to commemorate lineage, affluence, or major life moments. The clarity of the sitters’ clothing, hairstyles, and posture reflects the disciplined studio portrait tradition of the era.
Features
- Original Civil War–era leather case with floral embossing
- Scalloped brass mat surrounding the photographic plate
- Deep amber velvet lining with scrollwork
- Clear depiction of a multi-member family, including period clothing and hairstyles
- Hinged case with intact clasp
- Boston-area provenance as stated by the consignor
Cultural Significance
Ambrotypes became the dominant photographic method during the 1850s–1860s, replacing daguerreotypes as a more durable and affordable medium. Images such as this served as treasured keepsakes during the Civil War, especially for families separated by conflict. Today, they provide rare documentary insight into clothing, social structure, and domestic life in New England during the mid-19th century.
Condition
Good antique condition with age-expected surface wear. The case shows gentle rubbing at the edges, the clasp remains functional, and the image retains strong contrast with only minor spotting typical of ambrotypes of this age.
Dimensions (Approximate)
11.25 in × 7.25 in
Age
Circa 1500–1600 CE
Learn More
Deepen your understanding of 19th-century photography and the cultural importance of ambrotypes: Ambrotypes & Tintypes – Civil War–Era Photography (Library of Congress)
Explore more Victorian-era artifacts, relics, and historic collectibles: Victorian Artifacts & Historical Relics Collection – Relic And Rarity
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