SOUTHWORTH, ALBERT SANDS (1811–1894) & HAWES, JOSIAH (1808–1901) Oversized vignetted daguerreotype portrait of a blue-eyed woman, who is dressed in a delicate off-the-shoulder dress with lace trim, and whose features are beautifully hand-tinted; overall size 9 1/4x7 1/4 inches(23.5x18.4 cm.); in a leather case. Circa 1850
From Josiah Hawes; by descent to Edward Hawes (his son); to Hank Ford; to the Collection of John Wood; to the current owner.
The daguerreotype is the earliest photographic image and one that is unique and one-of-a-kind. Here, the influence of the portrait miniature is direct, given the extraordinary coloration employed to depict this fair woman. Although her lovely dress demonstrates a very detailed artist's palette, the accomplished shadow detail in her shoulders is both extraordinary and unique. In addition, her ensemble is highlighted with an unusual piece of jewelry, a thick brooch containing a picture, which may be either a painted miniature or a daguerreotype.
