This exquisite mid-19th-century portrait photography piece dates to the 1850s, capturing a poignant, formal study of a father tenderly holding his young child. The image is a true historical ambrotype—a wet collodion positive captured directly onto a sheet of glass—housed behind its original arched brass mat border. The sitters are dressed in classic early Victorian attire, with the gentleman sporting a prominent high-collared shirt and wide cravat style typical of the era.

The photograph is encased within a stunning, premium deep-profile wall frame that measures approximately 14 x 11 cm. The frame features a multi-layered design incorporating an outer carved gilt-wood rope or gadroon patterned border, a striking wide inner band of polished black lacquer, and an interior gold beaded slip. The reverse retains its highly collectible, completely intact original paper trade label from the workshop of T.T. Davis, wholesale and retail picture dealer, frame maker, and gilder, located at 73 Anlaby Road, Hull (noted as being one minute's walk from Paragon Station).

Please note that there is a vertical crack running down from the top centre through the upper portion of the underlying glass ambrotype plate itself, so please inspect the close-up listing photographs carefully to evaluate the condition. The multi-layered frame remains structurally sound with only minor superficial wear to the edges, and the backing paper remains largely intact, making this a highly compelling acquisition for collectors of early Victorian photography or regional East Yorkshire social history.

If you appreciate this great piece from my curated collection of antique and vintage curiosities and bygones please consider adding me to your favourite sellers.