Unusual carte-de-visite depicting a pair of folk musicians posed with their instruments in the studio of W. H. Lane, Galena, Illinois. One man holds a violin and bow, while the other grips a guitar and has a banjo resting between his knees. Each instrument is prominently painted with names or phrases, most notably “POND MUD” across the body of the guitar in large, bold letters, with other markings such as “S.W.T.” and “S.J.M.” suggesting initials or possibly group identifiers.

The duo’s relaxed posture, distinctive hats, and working-class attire suggest they may have been itinerant or self-styled musicians—perhaps local performers with a regional following or comic entertainers traveling the Midwest circuit. The personalization of their instruments hints at pride in their act, and may reflect a performative identity or nickname for their group.

Images of musicians from this era—particularly those holding multiple stringed instruments in a non-formal context—are scarce, and examples with personalized or inscribed instruments are even more so. A vibrant and character-filled image with strong regional interest and Americana appeal.