Antique photograph Charles Gallot Paris, vintage 19th-century cabinet portrait

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Antique "cabinet" type photograph, produced by the Charles Gallot studio in Paris, visible on the mount card at the bottom of the image ("PHOTOGRAPHIE CHARLES GALLOT 1 Boulevard Beaumarchais PARIS"). It is an oval black and white portrait of a young girl, highlighted by a careful presentation on thick card, characteristic of late 19th-century portraits.

The photograph shows a young girl with light hair, styled with a part and a curl on the side, wearing a high-collared dress decorated with a wide, light lace collar and voluminous sleeves typical of Victorian fashion. The face is slightly turned to the left, capturing a gentle and composed expression. The subtle contrast and fineness of the details indicate a period print, with elegant shades of gray and great sharpness of the face.

The cardboard mount is rectangular with rounded corners, featuring a white margin surrounding the oval image. The bottom of the card bears the printed inscription of the photographer and the precise address of the studio, essential elements for the authenticity and dating of this type of photograph. No additional decor or motif is visible on the front, allowing all attention to be focused on the portrait subject.

The clothing style, presentation, and typography of the mount allow this portrait to be attributed to the late 19th-century period, in the tradition of "cabinet of curiosities" portraits, often collected for their documentary and aesthetic value. The overall condition observed is good, with a slight patina on the edges of the card, typical of its age, but no major visible alteration on the photo surface itself.

The piece is photographed in an evocative cabinet of curiosities ambiance, with shelves of old books and a globe in the background, recalling the context of display or decoration for which this type of object is often sought. This portrait naturally fits into a vintage decor, a library, an old office, or a thematic display case.

Condition: Used item, sold as is. Slight signs of wear visible on the card, no tears or major alteration on the photographic surface.

Did you know? "Cabinet" portraits were particularly popular in Europe between 1870 and 1900. Produced on thick card, they often served as calling cards or family souvenirs and were prized for their superior print quality and durability compared to simple paper prints.

AFW Reassurance: Careful packaging, fast and tracked shipping. Professional seller specializing in authentic antique items.

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