Mary Phelps Allen
PhotographerPhotographed by
Samuel Root
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)
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
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.
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.
Object number2011.63.48
MarkingsOn a piece of paper affixed to the upper case, in black ink, "Mary Phelps Allen / m. John Allen"InscribedOn the lower edge of the case, in red paint, accession numberNotesSubject 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)On View
Not on view
David Allen Starr
