Artwork Page for Husband and Wife

Details / Information for Husband and Wife

Husband and Wife

c. 1860–65

America

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Medium
Two ambrotypes with hand-tinting
Measurements
Overall: 2.3 x 11.8 cm (7/8 x 4 5/8 in.)
Credit Line
The Julius L. Greenfield Photography Acquisition Fund 2022.11
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print
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Did You Know?

In the early decades of photography, many people did not know how to pose for the camera.

Description

You rarely see a smiling portrait from the mid-19th century. Having your photograph taken was a serious and rare endeavor, plus it was difficult to hold any animated expression long enough for the exposure times required by the early processes. Sitters were instructed to find ways to keep from moving, such as clasping their hands. The woman here has taken the photographers’ cautions to an extreme, resulting in a tense and unflattering portrait.
Two hand-tinted ambrotypes are presented in an open black rectangular case. The top lid features dark purple velvet embossed with a scrolling design. Below, two gold-toned scalloped frames border vertical portraits. On our left, a woman with light skin tone wears a checkered dress with a white collar. To her right, a man with light skin tone wears a dark suit and a bowtie. Both figures face forward against muted backgrounds.

Husband and Wife

c. 1860–65

America

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