Peter Hake Photograph Appraisal

Peter Hake, Gettysburg, PA, Carte de Visite (CDV)

This item is a historical photographic print, specifically a Carte de Visite (CDV), featuring a portrait of a man identified as 'Peter Hake' from 'Gettysburg, PA'. The photograph itself is an albumen print, characterized by its sepia-toned appearance, which is typical for photography from the mid-to-late 19th century. The portrait is oval-shaped and mounted on a rectangular card, a standard format for CDVs. The man is depicted from the waist up, seated, and facing slightly to the right, with his head turned towards the viewer. He is dressed in formal attire, including a dark coat, a richly patterned waistcoat with multiple buttons, and a cravat, suggesting the fashion of the mid-19th century. His hair is styled with a side part, and he has a relatively clean-shaven face. While the original card beneath the photograph is largely obscured by the protective sleeve, some light toning and minor surface abrasions are visible on the photographic emulsion, consistent with its age. The item is housed in a clear plastic protective sleeve, which exhibits some scratches and dust. A white label, possibly adhesive, is affixed to the bottom of the protective sleeve. This label bears handwritten inscriptions in blue ink: 'PETER HAKE', 'GETTYSBURG, PA', and a price or an identification number '35.00'. Additionally, a circled 'RC' or similar initial is present, possibly indicating a collection or cataloging mark. The overall condition appears stable, with typical signs of age and handling for a paper-based artifact of this period. The clarity of the inscription adds significant contextual value.