Lady with her dog. Río de la Plata School. Circa 1850.

Quarter-plate daguerreotype. Dimensions: 11 x 8 cm. Hand-colored (tinted) image. Housed in a vintage black-toned wooden frame measuring 16 x 14.3 cm, with a burgundy velvet mat (not original). The daguerreotype has been professionally restored and remains in a good state of preservation.

The revolutionary French invention of the daguerreotype arrived in the Río de la Plata region in the early 1840s. As was the case globally, this new art form was primarily dedicated to social portraiture.

Accessible only to the wealthiest classes of the era, the daguerreotype’s relatively short lifespan—from 1842 to the mid-1860s—combined with the natural attrition that occurs over successive generations, means that these early photographic treasures are now exceptionally rare.

Based on our research, daguerreotypes of women are significantly less common than those of men; a lady posing in a studio with her beloved pet dog is an extremely rare occurrence—perhaps even unique within this region.

Several interesting details can be noted about this valuable piece: the attire—specifically the low neckline—suggests it was created during the summer. The beautiful young woman wears a light-colored dress with a full, crinoline-supported skirt, accented by her finest gold jewelry, which has been hand-painted using appropriate pigments. She wears her hair in the classic *bandeau* style of the period and has full, prominent eyebrows. Her gaze is one of inquiry, directed toward the strange camera that would, in time, permanently capture her likeness for future generations. The studio setting features a carpeted floor and an artistic backdrop. Affection for the little white dog prevailed over the anxious objections of the daguerreotypist, who demanded absolute stillness during the long seconds of the exposure. For this reason, the lady is shown seated—her head held in place by an iron stabilizing device—while, as an extra precaution, she rests one arm on a small studio table. Nestled in the comforting lap of its owner, the little dog remains perfectly still, playing its part in this unique daguerreotype session.

These costly daguerreotypes were offered—depending on personal taste and, naturally, the price—in three formats: as small, intimate pieces of gold jewelry; in double cases known as *tafiletes* (leather-bound cases); or, in larger sizes—such as quarter-plate, half-plate, or full-plate—intended for display in the formal living rooms of private residences.

More than 170 years have passed, yet this beautiful woman continues to engage us from the depths of history. A piece truly worthy of a new home in a public or private collection.

Abel Alexander

President, Ibero-American Society for the History of Photography