Who Were They?

The bust portrait was a popular variation of the cabinet card and CdV throughout most of the 19th century, but it enjoyed a renewal in the 1890s. This cabinet card was probably made around 1895, based on the scalloped or deckled edge of the card. This young woman looks so solemn. We know this is likely because of the long exposure time of the photography process at the time, but it does make her look sad. Her dress is very nicely made of watered silk or similar fabric. She has a tiny jeweled flower at her throat, and tiny earrings. It makes me wonder if she was tiny, too.

This photo from the Dobb Long Book was made by James at 120 Clinton Street, Iowa City, IA.