Cdv Photo Appraisal

Tipton & Myers Gettysburg Carte de Visite (CDV) of a Woman

This item is a historical carte de visite (CDV) photograph featuring a seated woman, produced by the studio of Tipton & Myers in Gettysburg. The photograph is an albumen print, characteristic of 19th-century photography, and exhibits a sepia tone, indicative of its age and photographic process. The woman is depicted in a three-quarter pose, looking directly at the camera, with her hair neatly parted and pulled back. She is wearing a dark-colored dress with a high neckline and pleated or gathered detailing around the bodice and collar. Her hands are clasped over what appears to be a wicker-style footstool or small table, upon which a small book is also resting. The background is simple and unadorned, typical of studio portraits from the period, allowing the focus to remain on the sitter. The CDV is housed within a clear plastic protective sleeve, which has a white label affixed to its bottom edge. This label, written in blue ink, identifies the photographers as "TIPTON & MYERS GGETTYSBURG" (with 'Gettysburg' seemingly misspelled with an extra 'G'), a price of "* 22 00", and the initials "RG". The visible condition of the photograph itself appears to be good, with no obvious major tears or creases, although some slight fading or discoloration consistent with age might be present, particularly around the edges. The albumen print process, popular from the 1850s into the 1890s, suggests a style period aligning with the mid- to late 19th century, likely around the American Civil War era given the Gettysburg studio location. The craftsmanship is consistent with professional studio photography of the period, demonstrating clear focus and composition. The presence of the studio name and location adds to its historical and collectible value.