Gettysburg Photograph Appraisal

Oval Portrait Photograph of Peter Hake, Gettysburg, PA

This item is an antique photographic portrait, likely a 'carte de visite' or 'cabinet card' style photograph, though the exact format is not entirely clear from the image (it appears to be framed or encased). The photograph features a sepia-toned, oval-shaped portrait of a man identified on a handwritten label as 'Peter Hake, GETTYSBURG, PA'. The man is depicted from the waist up, seated, with his right arm resting on a surface or chair arm that is not fully visible. He is wearing formal attire consistent with mid-19th century fashion, including a dark jacket with wide lapels, a vest (possibly patterned or textured), and a dark cravat or necktie. His hair is styled with volume on the sides. The background behind the subject is a plain, solid dark color, accentuating the oval shape of the portrait. The photograph itself appears to be generally well-preserved, exhibiting the characteristic warm tones of early photographic processes. There are no immediately obvious significant condition issues such as major cracks, tears, or fading visible in the portrait itself, though the outer edges of the photo or its mounting show some minor wear consistent with age. It is currently housed within a clear plastic protective sleeve or casing, which shows some surface scratches, indicating handling and protection of the item. A handwritten paper label affixed to the top of this protective sleeve identifies the subject and location, and also includes a numerical value '3500' (possibly a price or inventory number), and a circled 'RC' mark. Based on the attire and photographic style, the item likely dates to the mid-19th century, possibly around the 1850s to 1870s. The identification of 'Gettysburg, PA' is a significant historical detail, potentially linking the subject to the period surrounding the American Civil War, which could substantially impact its historical value and desirability.