Lot 11

Lot 11

Exceptional sixth-plate daguerreotype of four partners in crime. They are quite a bunch of characters with their cocky attitudes and sheer confidence. The image was purchased from the Quad Cities area of Illinois.  In fact, we could see these rascals traveling the Mississippi River for a variety of business endeavors or scams. We have a feeling the two gents in the middle are the ring leaders. The one left of center is dashing, with his long hair and dreamy eyes. His buddy to the right exudes attitude to the highest degree with his suspenders unbuckled and hanging from his waist. He certainly has that “I don’t care what you think,” demeanor.  The guy on the far right has a flamboyant style, with a wild patterned vest. The man on the far left seems like the numbers guy or maybe a card dealer who is the brains of the operation. He moved during the exposure, creating a ghost image. All are chomping on cigars except the Casanova who has his arms crossed, cigar in hand. The image is in very good plus condition with nice tones and contrast. A little red hue has been added to the tips of the men’s’ cigars to give the image a real sense of flavor, and there are some small spots as seen. The plate had old seals intact and we have resealed the plate with a new glass.