Exceptionally rare and emotionally charged sixth plate daguerreotype attributed to the studio of John Plumbe Jr., one of America’s earliest and most influential photographic pioneers. This powerful image captures a young family gathered closely around a recently deceased infant, cradled gently in the arms of the mother, who gazes solemnly ahead. The father sits rigid and composed, while another child appears partially blurred at left—perhaps due to movement during the long exposure—introducing a poignant tension between life and death.

The composition is both intimate and formally posed, typical of Plumbe’s studio style, with crisp clarity and strong contrast. The image is housed in a full leather case with purple satin pad, exhibiting mild wear but still structurally sound.

Post mortem family portraits from known studios like Plumbe are exceedingly scarce, and the narrative depth of this scene—blending grief, dignity, and maternal tenderness—elevates it far above the typical memorial portrait. An important and moving piece of 19th-century photographic history.