Cabinet card portrait showing a young woman standing beside a large upright double bass. She rests one hand on the instrument’s neck while holding the bow in her other hand, suggesting she was either a trained musician or posed specifically as a performer.

The sitter wears a fitted light-colored dress with high collar and decorative bodice typical of late nineteenth century fashion. The imposing size of the double bass dominates the composition and emphasizes the musical theme of the portrait. Musical portraits such as this were commonly commissioned by students, teachers, or performers.

The mount reads “Studio Kanberg, Chicago, Ills.” The reverse carries an elaborate printed advertisement for the studio at 433 Division Street, between Wells Street and LaSalle Avenue, Chicago, noting that duplicates and enlargements were available. An appealing musical portrait featuring an uncommon instrument subject.