Antique photograph child E. Sassy Sète vintage portrait curiosity cabinet

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

Old portrait-style photograph, presented on a thick cardboard mount, typical of the "cabinet" formats from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The scene depicts a young child, with medium-length hair and a light-colored sailor collar garment, sitting on a stone wall. The shot is in black and white, with sepia tones, giving it an authentic patina and a period atmosphere.

The cardboard mount features a gold printed decoration on its lower part, where the photographer or studio's name is clearly visible: "E. SASSY" and the city "SÈTE". This type of thick cardboard with rounded corners was commonly used for professional studio portraits, often kept in family albums or displayed in cabinets of curiosities.

The image shows a careful composition, with a neutral painted background, typical of studio portraits from the Belle Époque. The details of the costume, such as the dark socks and two-tone shoes, as well as the seated posture on a stone ledge, indicate a children's clothing style from the late 19th or very early 20th century, often sought after for family photography during that period.

The photograph shows visible wear on the corners, particularly the upper left corner, which is slightly blunted. The original silver print remains legible despite some signs of age, enhancing its authentic character and decorative value.

The original cardboard, with its gold lettering and central monogram, adds a touch of period elegance. No other text or handwritten annotation is visible on the presented side.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Presence of wear marks, blunted corners, general patina consistent with age. See photo for the precise condition of the visible side.

Did you know? "Cabinet card" photographs appeared in the 1860s and remained popular until the early 20th century. They were often taken by local photographers, such as "E. Sassy" in Sète, and were used to immortalize family members in a carefully staged setting, intended for display or gifting.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging by a professional seller specializing in antique and decorative objects.

Keywords: antique photograph, child portrait, cabinet card, E. Sassy Sète, 19th century photo, vintage curiosity, antique studio photo, retro family photo, cabinet of curiosities, old portrait photo, Belle Époque, mounted photograph