This is an excellent example of a vintage Ambrotype most likely taken during the late 19th century between 1854 and 1866. It depicts a well dressed man with a heavy watch chain gazing to the right of the photographer. His cheeks have been hand tinted and the facial detail is excellent. The frame is in very good condition and probably original or at least one from the same period. There is a label on the back identifying the subject as 'John James' 'aged about 40 yrs'. I have no doubt as to the accuracy of these to elements, however the note also states that the 'picture taken 1834' which I believe less likely since Ambrotypes weren't around yet. The note, particularly with it's inaccuracies, only adds another element to make this image very interesting.
It measures approximately about 4 x 5 with the frame and quarter plates measure 3 ¼" x 4 ¼.
A725
An ambrotype is a positive image on high quality glass and each is a unique original. The photographic emulsion was applied to a glass plate, exposed, and developed. It was typically mounted or encased with some type of dark background as black paper, cloth, or painted metal so as to provide contrast when viewing though occasionally the backside of the glass was painted black.
Product code: Framed high quality Quarter Plate Ambrotype of an Identified Stately Gentleman