Musketeer by Verneuil
SOLD October 2000 |
French quarter plate daguerreotype with applied tinting, signed by the Daguerreotypist in stylus on plate "Verneuil Fait 1852". In passe-partout mount and original black oval frame, overall dimensions of frame 9 x 8 inches (23x21 cm).
Pose and lighting create the impression of someone caught in a spotlight, visually jumping from the plate, an effect enhanced by the tarnish ring at edges. The intense look on the boy's face is understandable given what appears to be the hilt and fancy scabbard of a sword lying on the same table where he suavely rests his elbow, already the infant model for the later self-assured military officer, or lounge lizard.
There are some abrasions at center of image between the young man's hands. Whites are rich and use has been made of flesh-colored tinting on his skin.
