A poignant mid-19th century sixth plate daguerreotype featuring a seated elderly woman holding a small book, likely a Bible or devotional text, cradled in her lap with care. She wears a dark dress with a crisply starched white collar and bonnet, her expression dignified and serene. Delicate tinting to her face and lace highlights the photographic detail and offers a subtle sense of life.

The image is housed in a desirable patriotic leather case bearing a deeply embossed design of a spread-winged American eagle clutching arrows and a shield, surrounded by flags and cannon barrels. Often associated with Civil War-era sentiment, these cases were produced in the years leading up to and during the war, reflecting the fervent nationalism of the time. The case interior is lined with vibrant red velvet featuring a floral motif. An evocative portrait in an emblematic and collectible housing.