Artwork Page for Child with Drum

Details / Information for Child with Drum

Child with Drum

1850s

America

Medium
daguerreotype, quarter-plate
Measurements
Image: 8.3 x 7 cm (3 1/4 x 2 3/4 in.); Case: 12.7 x 10.5 cm (5 x 4 1/8 in.); Matted: 61 x 50.8 cm (24 x 20 in.)
Credit Line
John L. Severance Fund 2002.33
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Description

For this finely toned daguerreotype, an unknown photographer skillfully manipulated a bulky camera into a low vantagepoint, ensured even lighting, and positioned the quaintly dressed subject against a neutral background to create a charming portrait. The child was carefully coached to stare directly into the lens and to hold the toy drum and drumsticks convincingly. Perhaps the drum is meant to recall earlier times in American history and to symbolize its fight for independence.
A vertically oriented daguerreotype depicts a young child with light skin tone standing full-length, looking directly out at the camera. The child wears a short-sleeved plaid dress with red bows at the shoulders over white, lace-trimmed leggings. A drum is suspended from their neck, a drumstick held in each hand. Set against a mottled background, the portrait is framed by an ornate gold mat within a leather case.

Child with Drum

1850s

America

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