Elizabeth van Cortlandt Hamersley
PhotographerPhotographed by
Unknown
Datebefore 1856
MediumPhotography; daguerreotype on silver-coated copper plate under glass with gilt mat in paper-covered wooden case with embossed green velvet pad
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width): 3 1/4 x 2 1/2in. (8.3 x 6.4cm)
Plate (height x width): 4 3/16 x 3 3/16in. (10.6 x 8.1cm)
Other (height x width): 4 11/16 x 3 11/16 x 9/16in. (11.9 x 9.4 x 1.4cm)
ClassificationsGraphics
Credit LineGift of Elizabeth W. Temple
Object number2011.63.84
DescriptionHalf-length portrait of an elderly woman sitting down with her hands in her lap. She is wearing a bonnet, a plaid shawl, and half-gloves, which leave her fingers uncovered.
The mat is oval with a floral design.
The case has an oval design in the center with vines in each corner.
The mat is oval with a floral design.
The case has an oval design in the center with vines in each corner.
Label TextUnlike most traditional photographs, which are multiples printed from a negative, each daguerreotype is unique. The only way to get another copy of a daguerreotype was to take another photograph of it. The fact that three near identical portraits of Elizabeth van Cortlandt Hamersley exist means that she sat for three separate daguerreotypes, one after the other. Small differences in the pose of Mrs. Hamersley can be detected upon close comparison of the three images.
NotesSubject Note: Elizabeth van Cortlandt Hamersley was the wife of Dr. William Hamersley and the mother of Judge William Hamersley. She died in 1856 in New York, New York. (Ruocco 03/17/2012)Subject Note: This and two other daguerreotypes of Elizabeth van Cortlandt Hamersley (2011.63.84, 2011.63.85) were obviously taken at the same time, since they are virtually identical, with only small variations in the positions of the sitter's hands and face.
Status
Not on view
