Half plate ambrotype. Full leatherette case.

Impressive half plate ambrotype of a man clad in Native American clothing and holding a large stemmed ceremonial pipe. Intricately tinted, nearly every bead and fringe of an elaborate scarf and hide jacket are emphasized with a dazzling variety of bold colors. The unknown subject grips the intricate pipe with both hands, holding it in front of his body to emphasize its importance. Various types of ceremonial pipes such as the example seen here were used by different Native American cultures during sacred ceremonies. What is perhaps most curious about this original circa 1855 photograph is that the man himself appears to be white; it is quite possible that he found himself in contact with Native Americans and was gifted or otherwise acquired several beautiful examples of their objects and textiles. The plate is clear and well-lit, making further close inspection possible.

Condition as shown.

[Daguerreotype, Ambrotype, Tintype, CDV, Albumen, carte-de-visite, Salt print, Cabinet Card]