Today’s photo from the Leather CdV Album is a fine image of a young man posed quite attractively, presumably so he could impress the ladies he visited and thereby left his visiting card. The square corners of the card indicate the 1860s but this is mid to late century (my guesstimate) due to the entire card being filled with the image. Early century photos were tiny images in the center of the large card.
Note that behind his feet you can see the base of a positioning stand. I heard from a photographer and historical photography enthusiast recently that setting up the photo and holding for the exposure could take up to 15 minutes in the early days. Unfortunately for us, the photographer did not order card mounts with his name on them. Our young buck has a fine set of whiskers on his chin and could possibly have curly hair, but I can’t quite tell. His frock coat is pulled open to reveal his waistcoat and the velvet lapels suggest some means. He is holding his hat against his hip in a rather casual mien.
This is a proud Sepia Saturday post! Click over where you will find photos of trios, brothers and sisters, hats, fancy dresses, and who knows what else?
Hats off to sepia!
Who Were They? 
I agree a handsome “specimen” well attired.; wonderful how you explain all the details of the photograph . As I am not familiar with old photographs I appreciate it.
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If this gentleman had to stand there for some 15 minutes, the chair was there clearly for his stability and not for decorative purposes. I don’t envy the man, having to maintain that posture for such a long time. For him I hope (t)his CDV served the presumed purpose :)
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Those were the days of gents and ladies and people dressed so nicely!
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Well he certainly is a smart young gentleman, but having to maintain that post must have been agony!
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Reminds me of a handsomer Abe Lincoln! I appreciate your description of what was really gone on during the photography session too.
Kathy M.
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He does seem quite dapper although his shoes appear scuffed. Interesting background about the stand.
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Yes a pose with a very jaunty attitude. His frock coat has a kind of sheen, almost a satiny finish. Is there a name for that material?
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could the material possibly be a fine wool mixed with fur? cannot remember the name of that clothing material? could be silk, but , but I know I,ve come across that they they mixed fine ( very thin) wool with some types of fur to give it a sheen or shine in the early 1800s.
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A pose I would never have been able to hold that long. Smart fellow.
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