Wet Plate Collodion Appraisal

Tintype of a Young Boy with Handwritten Label

This item is an antique tintype photograph depicting a young boy, likely from the late 19th century. The photograph is housed within a clear plastic protective sleeve, which exhibits significant surface scratching and scuff marks, particularly visible over the upper left quadrant and extending across the image. The tintype itself presents a monochrome, sepia-toned image where detail is somewhat softened by age and potential degradation. The boy is seated, facing slightly to the left, with his left arm resting on what appears to be the back of a chair or a prop. He is wearing a plaid or striped button-up shirt with a high collar, dark trousers, and dark boots. His hair is neatly parted, and he has a serious, direct gaze. The background is dark and indistinct, characteristic of early studio portraiture. A notable feature is a small, rectangular handwritten paper label affixed to the top right corner of the protective sleeve, which reads 'Beautiful Small Boy' on the first line, and '18 00 RC' on the second line. The '18 00' likely indicates a price of $18.00, and 'RC' could be initials or an abbreviation related to the seller or cataloging. The tintype shows signs of minor surface imperfections, possibly due to the photographic process or as a result of age, but no major cracks or bends are discernible through the protective casing. The overall condition of the tintype itself appears good given its age, though the protective sleeve is quite scuffed. The craftsmanship of the photograph is typical of the era, capturing a clear likeness given the limitations of the technology.