Tinted Couple by JJ Outley

Lovely had tinted sixth-plate daguerreotype by J.J. Outley, St. Louis, MO; identified with a brass mat stamp.  According to Craig’s Registry John J. Outley was first listed in St. Louis as a daguerreian in 1851.  By 1858 it was reported in Humphrey’s Journal that he was seeking a partner because of an illness.  Outley produced some gorgeous plates as an artist and this one is certainly an example of that quality.  We see beautiful light blues and reds perfectly tinted throughout the woman’s fabulous patterned dress which screams a Midwestern style.   Her fan has been tinted in a most stunning light mauve that has also been added to her husband’s vest albeit in even a more subtle fashion.   His tie has been delicately tinted a powder blue in superior painter quality.  His shirt also exhibits a similar blue hue that is slighter lighter but when held at an angle shows a darker rich blue color.  This is quite fascinating to see in person and certainly showed the expert painting techniques of American artist in his own special style.  Tinting has been added to their faces and gold gliding to their jewelry in a less professional style that we so often see with U.S. portraits.  This delightful plate is in excellent minus condition with nice tones and contrast.   One tiny spot on her forehead just below the part in her hair and another on the right perimeter.   A hint of cloudiness on the top left or her head but this is subtle and just mentioned for accuracy.  The plate had old seals tightly intact and we resealed it with a new glass.  It is housed in a full case that has some leather loss on the back edges. $175