Case Study
The Robert Nix Historic Photograph Collection at the Hargrett Rare Book & Manuscript Library provides an excellent resource in the study of the earliest photographic methods: daguerreotypes, ambrotypes, and tintypes. The very beginning of photography was a quickly-evolving exploration in the chemistry and processes for the preservation and collection of images. Capturing the likeness of ourselves and loved ones became wildly popular after the introduction of the daguerreotype in 1839. In true pioneer fashion, photographers continued exploring other photographic and housing methods to ensure they would maintain their clarity and brightness. Daguerreotypes were mostly popular in the 1840s-1850s, being swiftly replaced by the ambrotype in 1854, which was then succeeded by the tintype in the 1860s-1870s.
The main difference among the dag, ambro, and tintypes was their durability. Daguerreotypes were created on silver coated plates, which tarnished often, compromising the image. Ambrotypes were created on glass plates, making them susceptible to breakage. Out of the three early types, tintypes were the most durable method, as their images occupy an iron sheet. For the first time in history, people were able to carry memories in tangible, yet delicate forms, and they needed protection from the elements.
Protective cases were developed to house these three types of early photography. Often they were lightweight, wooden cases with hinges and clasps, covered in a leather, papier mache, or mother of pearl exterior. Most cases had decorative relief patterns on the outside and stamped velvet interiors with floral, historical, and geometric motifs. They usually consisted of a preserver, a sheet of glass, and a mat to protect the print from exposure.
(Image from www.phototree.com) In 1856, a new type of case, the Union case was patented to provide a tougher, more sturdy exterior as it was made from a mix of sawdust and shellac. This case also included the mat and protective elements of the wooden cases, but was much more durable. Cases are helpful in the attempt to date the early photographs, but can be misleading due to the fact that the photos can be moved to different cases.
These are a few examples of cases from the Nix Collection: Leather Case
Papier Mache Case
Union Case
Mother of Pearl Case