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Antique Mid-Victorian Sixth Plate Ambrotype Portrait — Bearded Gentleman in Union Case
Offered here is a beautifully preserved antique ambrotype photograph, circa 1855–1865, housed in its original hinged thermoplastic case.
The Image:
A sixth-plate ambrotype portrait of a distinguished bearded gentleman, seated, wearing a dark sack coat, waistcoat, and bow tie. The image is clear and well-detailed, with good contrast and no major flaking or emulsion loss. Housed under glass in a decorative stamped brass mat (preserver) with a beaded oval border.
The Case:
Original hinged case with richly embossed scrollwork, floral medallion, and gilt-tooled edges on the exterior. Interior features a red velvet pad opposite the image, embossed with a floral spray motif. Brass clasps are intact and functional. Wear is consistent with age — please see photos for full condition detail, including rubbing to the gilt edges and general surface wear typical of a 160+ year old case.
Dimensions:
Thermoplastic case measures approximately 3.25” x 3.75” closed (consistent with standard sixth-plate sizing).
Condition Notes:
• Image: clear, good detail, no notable spotting or delamination
• Case: exterior shows expected edge wear and gilt loss; hinges and
