sixth-plate daguerreotype, cased, circa 1850

Obviously taken inside this carpenter's workshop, where lighting and conditions would have been far less ideal than in the photographer's studio, this daguerreotype represents a technical feat as well as an aesthetic one. While the carpenter himself is rendered in very slightly soft focus, the chisels against the wall of his workshop are delineated with remarkable clarity. Although the daguerreotype has some thick tarnish on its periphery, it does not obscure the great amount of visual information set forth in this image. The remnants of the original seal are present, but the seal is no longer intact.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This study of a carpenter in his workshop is one of several daguerreotypes in the David Belcher Collection that shows a tradesman in his place of employment (see also Lots 24, 30, and 31).  Such in situ views are rare from the daguerreian era, given the logistical difficulties posed by practicing the complex daguerreotype process outꦿside the controlled confines of the studio.  This view offers not only a portrait of a proud workman, but also a glimpse of his shop with its tidy array of tools.  Visible on the wall above the tools is a broadside, or perhaps a page taken from a periodical, that incorporates a portrait of the famed Swedish singer, Jenny Lind, and, most interestingly, what appears to be an image of Chinese or Japanese musicians.