12.16.2012

Stallion and Man ambrotype, c. 1860s


There is no shadow on the photo, just my arm making one. It's a quarter plate ambrotype. The case is about 4" x 4.5" and made of embossed leather over wood, with tiny brass hinges and hook closures. The velvet facing the glass is a deep red with a fancy pattern. The gold frame is a coppery gold.


I love the way the man is watching the horse, and the horse is watching the man. It almost looks like a Morgan, with that muscled front.


They seem to know each other. And the man is leaning towards the horse, just slightly, holding his head still for the photo.
Longer view of the case, which is intact and in great shape, and the fancy flocked velvet facing.
No shadows, really.