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Gift of Elizabeth W. Temple, 2011.63.48  © 2012 The Connecticut Historical Society.
Mary Phelps Allen
Gift of Elizabeth W. Temple, 2011.63.48 © 2012 The Connecticut Historical Society.

Mary Phelps Allen

Photographer (American, 1820 - 1889)
Date1851-1853
MediumPhotography; daguerreotype on silver-coated copper plate under glass with gilt mat in paper-covered wooden case with embossed dark blue velvet pad
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width): 3 5/16 x 2 7/16in. (8.4 x 6.2cm) Plate (height x width): 4 3/16 x 3 1/4in. (10.6 x 8.3cm) Other (height x width): 4 5/8 x 3 11/16 x 5/8in. (11.7 x 9.4 x 1.6cm)
ClassificationsGraphics
Credit LineGift of Elizabeth W. Temple
Object number2011.63.48
DescriptionBust-length portrait of a woman wearing a dress with a lace collar. Her jewelry includes earrings and a brooch.

The daguerreotype has a plain gold oval mat, a dark blue velvet pad embossed with a pattern of leaves and flowers, has a floral design. The case has a floral design within and around a cartouche outline and gilt edges.
NotesSubject Note: Mary Ann Phelps was born on 28 October 1819. She married John Allen in 1848. Photographs suggest that the couple had four daughters. Photographs of two daughters, Mary Constance Allen and Jane Allen are included in the CHS collection. A third daughter, Grace, is listed in the 1900 Federal Census. Mary Ann Allen died in 1900. (Ruocco, 03/22/12)
Status
Not on view