Post Mortem Tintype of Young Child in a Carriage, c. 1870

Memorial photography, a poignant practice that dates back to the Victorian era, serves as a tender intersection between art and mourning. Initially born from the desire to preserve the memory of loved ones in an age when photography was a luxury, this genre captures the serene, often haunting visages of the deceased in a dignified manner. As much a part of the grieving process as it is a photographic tradition, memorial photography offers a tangible connection to those passed, encapsulating their presence in a frame that seeks to honor and remember rather than forget. Over time, while its popularity has fluctuated, the essence of memorial photography remains a testament to the enduring need to commemorate and hold close to those we have lost.
 
Tintypes, a photographic process popular in the 19th century, are one-of-a-kind images. They are created through a wet plate collodion process, where a light-sensitive emulsion is applied to a metal plate, typically iron. The plate is then exposed in a camera and developed immediately, resulting in a direct positive image that requires no negative. This meticulous process, often conducted in makeshift darkrooms, contributed to the intimate and handmade quality of tintype photographs, imbuing each image with a sense of craftsmanship and authenticity. After development, tintypes were often presented in protective hard cases, adding to their durability and allowing them to be safely transported and displayed for generations to come.
 
This is a lovely post mortem tintype of young child in a carriage with a hand painted blanket and tinted cheeks. 
 
Format: Tintype 
Size: 1/4 Plate
Condition: Good