Asleep?
SOLD March 2007 |
Paired sixth plate daguerreotypes of two siblings, the second shown in sleeping pose on floor surrounded by toys. Both housed in a mother-of-pearl "BIJOU" book-style case which has broken completely apart.
The idyllic world of childhood is here shown in a pose which looks so like an actual child sleeping that we cannot tell whether the image was taken post-mortem or of an actual dozing infant. In either case the artistry of this piece is exceptional. A fancy ribboned hat has just tumbled from the child's head, one hand still clutches a rattle, and an empty shoe lies near his bare feet. Beside the shoe, crisply detailed toy figurines of a horseman and barking dog slant upward, as if galloping into the sky.
The second plate seem to show a sibling, dressed in nearly identical clothing and holding a rattle and fan.
Both plates are in excellent condition. They fit into the central "book" portion of the case on opposite sides. The cases front and back covers and spine have separated from the interior, with wear and missing pieces.
